HIV and AIDS

What is HIV?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. As it's name suggests, it acts by attacking the body's immune system, specifically a white blood cell called the CD4 cell. Over time, HIV will reduce the number of CD4 cells in a person's body.

What is AIDS?

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. AIDS happens if HIV infection is left untreated and the CD4 count drops to very low levels. AIDS is diagnosed when a person contracts an infection or illness that would not occur with a normal immune system.

How is HIV transmitted?

Unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex
Needle sharing
Receiving infected blood products
Transmission from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding

Are there symptoms of HIV infection?

Not everyone who is infected will get symptoms. If they do, they will be flu-like symptoms 4-8 weeks after infection. The symptoms will last for 1-2 weeks.

How soon after possible exposure to the virus can I be tested to see if I am clear?

Doctors talk about the "window period" which is the time between infection and the time a blood test will show a positive result.

At Clinic Express we do two different types of test:


1. Instant HIV antibody test

This test checks for the antibodies a person will make against HIV. It can take up to two months for the body to produce sufficient antibodies for us to detect them with this test. We offer instant HIV test results using INSTi (TM) technology. Results are available in person in ONE minute

2. HIV antibody test and P24 antigen test

This is a test with two parts: an antibody test similar to the instant HIV test, and a test for the virus itself. As levels of the virus can be very high quite soon after infection, the P24 test may give a positive result from 10 days after infection, and will certainly do so after one month.

Before we carry out an HIV test we will assess if you have any specific risk factors and advise you on the best form of testing for you. Results within 24 hrs.

If I am positive, who do I have to tell?

You are required to tell life insurance agencies and any future sexual partners. Contacting previous sexual partners may be done anonymously. Being HIV positive will exclude you from travel to certain countries: at present this includes the USA and Russia. You would also be excluded from emigration to certain countries, including Australia.

And if I'm positive how long could I live with the virus?

On current figures, a 25 year old man diagnosed with HIV would be likely to have his life expectancy reduced from 75 to 64 because of his HIV infection.


HIV test certificates

We can carry out HIV tests for Visa purposes e.g. Russia, the Middle East and for marriage. If you need a HIV test certificate for a business visa, tourist visa or marriage, we can provide you with one providing you bring suitable photo-ID (passport or photo-driving license).

Clinic Express provides rapid screening and treatment for sexually transmitted infections and diseases.

Patents can walk in and be seen without an appointment, and if necessary receive treatment the same day.

Men: Please do not pass urine for at least two hours before attending the clinic.

All tests and their results are based on your clinical number and date of birth and not your name to ensure accuracy and security of care.

We aim to provide professional yet sympathetic treatment in a relaxed and friendly environment.


CLINIC EXPRESS IS DISCREET, SAFE, FAST, CLEAN, PRIVATE & CONFIDENTIAL
NO APPOINTMENT IS NEEDED, WALK IN AND GET TESTED TODAY!