Check Yourself: Get Tested

Posted by ONE Singapore on February 05, 2020

Every year on June 27th, people celebrate National HIV Testing Day! Let's join together to educate and encourage each other to #GetTested.

So, why should I get tested?

In 2014, there were 3,393 new cases of HIV infection reported in Malaysia. About 34.3% of reported infections are amongst young people aged 13 to 29 years. According to the Malaysian Aids Council, an estimated of 93,089 people are living with HIV in Malaysia. The mode of transmission of HIV via Sexual Transmission is on a rampant increase as compared to IDU. In fact, 78% of the HIV cases are contributed via Sexual Transmission (Source: Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health).

Let’s change that. Together we can educate ourselves, our partners, and our communities how to play safe. Today is a great day to #GetTested.

Now, what is HIV again?

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. If left untreated, HIV can lead to the disease called AIDS. Being HIV positive is not the same as having AIDS. Many people who are living with HIV don't get sick for several years. Over years HIV slowly wears down the immune system. Common illnesses that usually don't cause any problems can make you very sick, or kill you, if your immune system is damaged.

There is still no cure, but due to improved treatments, people with HIV are now living longer and healthier lives than ever before. But the only way to get treatment if you've been infected is to Get Tested. And no matter what your HIV status, take steps to protect yourself and your partners.

How do I get tested?

Visit your local health center or clinic, and talk to your doctor. Alternatively, PT Foundation offers anonymous & confidential HIV screening and counselling. You may visit their website for more details.

HIV testing may involve obtaining blood or oral fluid for a rapid test or sending blood or oral fluid to a laboratory. The type of routine HIV tests most places offer are called HIV antibody tests. They detect HIV antibodies, not the actual HIV virus. The human immune system creates HIV antibodies as a response to HIV infection. It usually takes anywhere from 10 days to 3 months from the day of infection, perhaps longer in some cases, for the body to create enough antibodies to be detected in a blood test. Learn more here and here.

What do I do if I find out I’ve been infected?

Don’t panic! First, be proud that you had the courage to get tested. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options, and follow them exactly as directed. Talk to your partners, and encourage them to get tested as well.

What is stigma?

Stigma is a negative association that people have with something. Sometimes our culture tries to stigmatize or shame people for having sex in the first place, or if they have been infected with an HIV or another sexually transmitted infection. Don’t let stigma prevent you from getting tested, treated, or talking to your partners about safer sex.

What are PrEP and PEP?

PrEP is a daily pill that people can take to lower their chances of getting infected with HIV. PrEP + condoms, better together! Remember, PrEP doesn’t protect against other STIs, so condoms are still important. Talk to your health care provider to see if PrEP is right for you. Click here for more information.

PEP = post-exposure prophylaxis. It means taking antiretroviral medicines after being potentially exposed to HIV to prevent becoming infected. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, visit your doctor as quickly as possible.

Education