Privileged and rapid access to a control
Outpatient activity is for all patients with infectious diseases and includes screenings for all sexually transmitted diseases. The goal of counseling is to provide privileged and rapid access to a screening, absolutely anonymous, which is often not performed due to fears or underestimation of risks.
Clinical experience in recent years underscores the importance of early diagnosis as highly effective therapies are available to fight the AIDS virus and prevent the onset of symptoms.
HIV infection can only be diagnosed by undergoing virus-specific testing.
The test looks for antibodies that our body produces against the virus following infection.
The formation of HIV antibodies is not immediate; there is a period called a "window" (up to 6 weeks) during which the test result is not reliable.
Following risky sexual behavior, a decision is made to test for HIV during the window period. If it comes back negative, it is important to repeat it three months after the risk episode. If flu-like symptoms, swelling of lymph nodes, rash, appear after risky behavior, HIV testing is recommended. In addition to HIV testing, one should also be tested for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) after medical consultation.
In summary:
- if 6 weeks have passed since the risk;
- if it has been a short time and symptoms occur;
- if, in a stable relationship, you plan to abandon condoms and safer sex rules(www.aids.ch/it/);
- if you plan to have a child.
The importance of getting tested for HIV.
Currently, and in our latitudes, HIV infection is considered a chronic disease. It is still not a curable but treatable disease. If HIV infection is diagnosed early, available antiretroviral therapies offer a life expectancy comparable to that of HIV-negative people, what gives room for personal, work and family life plans, including having children.
Early diagnosis through HIV testing allows people to receive appropriate support and treatment as well as prevent the risk of transmitting the virus to others. After diagnosis, the ensuing antiretroviral treatment through regular medical supervision can decrease the infectious capacity of HIV by preventing transmission of the virus to others.
Arriving at a late diagnosis has as its consequences a debilitated state of health at the time of the positive test as well as having put past and present partner(s) at risk. A few rules are necessary to avoid exposing oneself to risk. Practice safer sex (link) in casual or one-night stands as well as at the beginning of a new relationship until the outcome of the test if you decide to abandon the condom.
