The STI Clinic has launched a testing service for HIV. The test uses the latest detection technology and can provide a reliable result 6 weeks after a risky event. The test looks for antigens and antibodies and is capable of early detection. In some cases the antigens associated with HIV are detectable in the blood after 10 days. We recommend that people get tested as early as possible following exposure to a risky event, but if the result is negative, we will recommend a retest at the 6 weeks mark.

We have also introduced some wider tests with an HIV testing component. These wider screens are aimed at men who have sex with men (MSM) and suit the sexual health risk profile of this population group. The MSM tests incorporate Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea infections and encompass the infection sites of the throat, the rectum and the genitals. These tests also extend to Hepatitis B and C and also Syphilis. The HIV test has a 4 hour turnaround time and the MSM tests are next day results, with the possibility of interim results before all results are available.

Further details about these tests are located here and here.