HIVstatus

HIV status refers to whether a person is infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and, if infected, the level of virus in the body. It can be described as negative (not infected), positive (infected), or in the case of early infection, acute HIV infection where virus is rising before traditional tests are fully positive. HIV status is determined through diagnostic testing and ongoing monitoring.

Testing for HIV typically uses a combination of methods. Fourth generation tests detect both HIV-1/2 antibodies and the p24 antigen, allowing earlier detection than antibody-only tests. If a test is positive, a confirmatory test is used to establish a definitive result. Nucleic acid tests (RNA tests) can detect HIV even earlier, during acute infection. Results should be interpreted in context of timing since exposure, and individuals with recent high-risk exposure may require repeat testing to rule out a window period where a test may be negative despite infection.

A positive HIV status means infection with HIV. The standard care goal is sustained viral suppression through antiretroviral therapy (ART), which reduces the viral load to undetectable levels in most people. Achieving and maintaining an undetectable viral load greatly lowers the risk of progression to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and markedly reduces the chance of transmitting the virus to others, a principle commonly summarized as U=U (undetectable equals untransmittable). Ongoing care includes regular monitoring of viral load and CD4 counts, managing any related health issues, vaccination, and, when appropriate, opportunistic infection prophylaxis.

A negative HIV status means no infection at the time of testing. However, exposure to HIV after the test can lead to a new infection, so retesting is advised after potential exposure. Privacy and stigma considerations are important; testing services are available in many settings with counselling and support throughout the process.