Hollis
Exposed in the last 72 hours? Call about PEP first
A test taken now cannot detect an infection from the last few days. If a possible exposure was less than 72 hours ago, PEP may prevent infection altogether. Call now and a physician will advise you.
The window period
After an exposure there is a window period before an infection shows up on a test. Lab antigen/antibody tests detect most infections from about 4 to 6 weeks. Your physician may advise a repeat test at 3 months to be certain. If you are taking or have taken PEP, the timing is different and your physician sets your test dates.
What your result means
A negative lab result taken after the window period for your last possible exposure means you did not get HIV from that exposure. If you took PEP or PrEP, your physician times the final test, usually 12 weeks after the exposure. A reactive result always needs a confirmatory test, and your physician will walk you through what happens next, calmly and in private.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Every situation is different, so speak to a physician about yours. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
