Why is testing so important, and what kind of tests are there?
An HIV test gives you clarity. An early diagnosis is critical for access to lifesaving treatment. There are two different ways of testing: the lab test and the quick test. The lab test (blood sample collection) can detect HIV infection within six weeks and hepatitis C as well as syphilis infection within ten weeks from risky exposure. The results become available within a week and are given in person on the premises of the AIDS Advice Centre. The quick test only requires a drop of blood from the fingertip. The result can be provided directly on site. It should be noted that quick tests only provide a reliable result 12 weeks after a risky exposure.
You can make an appointment directly with the Advice Centre (phone Mon.-Fri. from 9:00 to 13:00 0851 5606101). Appointments are scheduled at 15-minute intervals (16:00, 16:15, etc.). To ensure anonymity, you will be asked to provide a code word of your choice when making an appointment. Please indicate whether you wish to take a lab test or a quick test and provide three possible dates/times for an appointment.