The rapid self-test screens in 15 minutes if you are infected with HIV with 99% accuracy.

WHAT IS THE HIV SELF-TEST?

The HIV Test helps determine if someone is infected with HIV-1 or HIV-2 using a small drop of blood collected from a finger prick. The test only requires a tiny sample, about the size of a small drop (10 microlitres).

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which affects the immune system and reduces the body's ability to fight infections and everyday illnesses. If left untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
While AIDS cannot be transmitted from one person to another, the HIV virus can.

After exposure to HIV, it may take 6-12 weeks for your body to develop the antibodies detected by this test. This period is called the window period. If you take an HIV self-test during the window period, you may incorrectly get a negative result. If you believe you have recently been exposed to HIV, it is recommended to test again after the window period has passed.

There is no cure for HIV or AIDS but, with proper medical treatment, it can be managed as a non-life-threatening condition. With early diagnosis and treatment, the life expectancy of a person with HIV can be similar to that of someone without HIV.

HOW TO USE THE HIV SELF-TEST

• Wash and dry your hands.
• Check the expiration date before opening the aluminium pouch.
• Massage your finger for 5 to 10 seconds.
• Twist and gently remove the green tab, then discard it.
• Push the gray button to prick your finger.
• Place the test on the instructions next to the results.
• Press firmly behind the prick site to obtain blood.
• Fill the blood tube with blood. If the blood tube is not full, squeeze the finger and add more blood.
• Hold the test over the table.
• Now turn the blood tube to the wall.
• Add 4 drops of the reagent into the well and wait for the result.

WARNINGS

• Intended for single use only;
• Do not reuse the test;
• All positive results must be confirmed by a doctor or healthcare professional;
• The test should be stored at a temperature of 2°C to 30°C;
• Do not open the aluminium package until you are ready to perform the test;
• Do not use if expired.

CONTENTS

• Test cassette;
• Instructions for use;
• Bandage;
• Reagent solution.

You will need a timer


RESULTS

To read the HIV test result, look for the control line ("C") and the test line ("T") in the results window. A negative result appears as a line at "C". A positive result appears as two lines, one at "C" and one at "T", even if the "T" line is faint. An invalid result occurs if there is no line at "C" or no lines, which means the test did not work correctly.

NEGATIVE RESULT

A line appears next to "C" (Control) and there is no line next to "T".
Meaning: There is no evidence of HIV infection based on the test at that time.

Next steps: If you had a recent potential exposure (within the last 3 months), you should seek confirmatory testing from a healthcare professional and may need to repeat the test in 3 months.

POSITIVE RESULT

Two lines appear, one at "C" (Control) and one at "T" (Test), even if the "T" line is very faint.
Meaning: The test is "reactive," indicating it reacted to something in your blood and requires additional confirmation.

Next steps: You should follow up with a healthcare professional for further testing to confirm the diagnosis. If the confirmation is positive, it is crucial to start treatment, as individuals on treatment can live long and healthy lives.

INVALID RESULT

No lines appear or there is no line at "C" (Control).
Meaning: The test did not work correctly, possibly due to user error or insufficient blood sample.

Next steps: Perform another test, ensuring to follow the instructions carefully. If you have any doubts about any result, visit a healthcare professional for retesting.