HIV - Hepatitis B - Hepatitis C Blood Test

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus which weakens and destroys the body's ability to fight infection and illness. HIV is the main cause of AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). HIV is found in the body fluids of an infected person - including semen, vaginal and anal fluids, blood and breast milk. HIV can't be transmitted through sweat, urine or saliva. The most common way of getting HIV in the UK is through having unprotected sex with an infected partner, but the virus can also be caught by sharing needles during drug use. Some people experience flu-like symptoms for around 2-6 weeks after a HIV infection. After they disappear, HIV may not cause any further symptoms for many years, but the virus still continues to damage the immune system. Many don’t know that they are infected.

The test looks for specific HIV antibodies that are produced shortly after infection. A p24 antigen test is also carried out to increase the chances of detecting an infection sooner after exposure.