HIV Test

Table of contents

HIV Test - what is it and how the test is done

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that is feared all over the world. The main reason is its incurable course and the fact that once it occurs, there is no going back. 

HIV is also a destructive virus that only causes deterioration and irreversible destruction of a person’s immune system. 

Therefore, it is required for every at-risk person to get tested for this virus. It is also recommended that people who have been exposed to this virus or a person suffering from it get themselves checked and tested for HIV in their blood. 

Testing for HIV is done in different ways. However, Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) is the most preferred method. It involves taking a blood sample from your arm and evaluating it for the presence of HIV. The NAT also helps determine the levels of HIV present in the blood. The NAT helps diagnose HIV earlier than the other tests, which is why it is preferred more than the different testing methods.

Common conditions covered by a Rapid HIV Test

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) Asymptomatic HIV Dyspnea Late-stage HIV infection

Where to get a Rapid HIV Test in Italy

HIV Test at-Home and Self Tests

HIV Test FAQs

Early detection of HIV is beneficial for those who work in high-risk environments. It helps develop a treatment plan that could prevent complications and infections and provide years of healthy living. If left untreated, HIV can cause life-threatening health problems. Early diagnosis also alerts a person to avoid high-risk behaviour that spreads the disease to others.

IV drug abusers, people who share syringes, people who have had unprotected sex or intercourse with infected individuals, and people who have anal intercourse must be tested for HIV.

The average time for antibodies to develop is three to four weeks; this is essential to get a checkup as most HIV tests check for antibody levels.

Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) is the most preferred method. It involves taking a blood sample and evaluating it for the presence of HIV RNA. It also determines the levels of HIV present in the blood. It also helps to diagnose HIV earlier.

If you test positive, you should talk to your doctor about it. The test itself means that you are carrying the virus that can cause AIDS, and you can infect others. You should begin an HIV management plan and take precautions to avoid spreading the virus.

A HIV Test in Italy costs on average 35 Euros. (information based on our data as of September 2022)