I had unprotected vaginal and oral sex with a female.
6 weeks after potential exposure, I had the rapid test done and to my relif it came back negative. Now I think the test I had done was the 4th gen test, I have two questions
Do the 4th gen test detect the virus itself as well as the Antibody
Do I need to go back in 6 weeks time to get a re test? (Would be 3 months in total)
I should have asked the person , but he said I do not need to worry as my risk is low and the fact that my test came back negative
Thank you in advance
Hi
1. The 4th gen tests for HIV antibodies and P24 antigens
2. No since the 4th gen is highly accurate with a window period of 11 days-1 month. You said 6 weeks so it should have picked it up, however most people do a second test just so they can have a peace of mind.
for further details: This PDF will answer all your questions: This PDF will answer all your questions: http://www.nat.org.uk/media/Files/Policy/2011/Oct-2011-Facts-Types-of-HIV-test.pdf
Also I think you will be fine so relax and enjoy the summer, if you still want to be tested in 6 weeks then go for it.
Thank you very much for your answer.
Yes you are right, as the rapid tests for the virus and anti body, I'm not going to panic anymore.
Although I am having other tests done, as I still have a dry cough and a very mild fever.
But thank you again, I will try enjoy the summer and go back for the test in 6 weeks time
One more question, sorry i've been reading on the net again.
The test i took was the rapid 4th gen test. ( seel below link)
Now it say these test are not good compared to the 4th generation test.
This is confusing for me, i took the 20 min test, which test for the anti gen and antibody.
Should i have done the 4th gen test that goes to the lab?
http://www.aidsmap.com/Rapid-tests/page/1323371/