HIV Counseling and Testing :: Interpreting test results

How do I interpret HIV test results?

A positive result on an HIV test means that HIV antibodies are present and you are HIV positive. If you test positive for HIV, early medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well, delay the onset of AIDS, and prevent some life-threatening conditions. If you are HIV-positive, follow these steps immediately to protect your health:

• See a doctor, even if you do not feel sick. There are many drugs to treat HIV infection, which may help you maintain your health.
• Seek counseling to help deal with the news and join a support group.

While there is still no cure for HIV/AIDS, new treatment drugs are dramatically improving the lives of many HIV-positive people. Click here for additional resources about living with HIV.

A negative result on an HIV test indicates that you are not infected with HIV. However, it is recommended that you be retested in six months if you have engaged in high-risk behavior during the past six months because it can take that long for your immune system to produce enough antibodies. (See Window period information)

Your test results reveal only your HIV status. HIV infection may not occur every time there is an exposure, therefore your test does not necessarily reveal whether or not your partner is infected. In order for your partner to know their HIV status, they must be tested.

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