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Testing
Jun 13, 2007

I got tested for HIV 6 months after my possible exposure. It turned out to be negative. Is this an acurate test? The reason why I am asking this is because a couple of days ago I heard from somewhere that it can be in your body for up to 10 years without you even knowing it. Does that mean after a negative test after 6 months there is the possibility of me being infected? Or is a test after 6 months acurate?

Response from Dr. Horwath

If you test negative 6 months after an exposure, then you can feel very confident about the results.

Yes, HIV can be a silent infection for up to 10 years, but that is in people who are infected. You are HIV negative; not infected.



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