HIV 1&2 / P4 Antigen - Blood Test - In-Store only
This test looks for the presence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) 1 and 2 antibodies, and also for antibodies to a part of the virus particle known as p24. This virus protein is detectable in the blood before antibodies are made to the HIV particle, meaning it allows for earlier detection of HIV if present. Once established, the p24 antibodies diminish - so the p24 test a test for diagnosis, whereas HIV antibodies when present suggest an established infection with HIV.
Additional information
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. You may also need an HIV test if you are at higher risk for infection. HIV is mainly spread through sexual contact and blood, so you may be at a higher risk for HIV if you:
- Are a man that has had sex with another man
- Have had sex with an HIV-infected partner
- Have had multiple sex partners
- Have injected drugs, such as heroin, or shared drug needles with someone else
HIV can spread from mother to child during birth and through breast milk, so if you are pregnant your doctor may order an HIV test. There are medicines you can take during pregnancy and delivery to greatly reduce your risk of spreading the disease to your baby.