HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

Blood, semen, vaginal fluids and breast milk of infected persons can carry the HIV. The virus can pass from one person to another through these infected body fluids.

HIV is not transmitted in fluids such as sweat, saliva or tears. It is also not transmitted by everyday contact with people, such as hugging, shaking hands or eating meals with, or prepared by, people infected with HIV. You cannot get the virus from telephones, toilet seats, swimming pools, hot tubs, water fountains or by sharing glasses or dishes.

The body makes antibodies in response to infections. HIV antibodies can usually be found in the blood within 12 weeks after you are infected with HIV.

The Disease Control Laboratory in Regina does all HIV antibody tests in Saskatchewan. The test is free.

If the test is positive, you are infected with HIV and can pass the virus to others. The test does not tell when you became infected or when you will get sick.

A negative test means you are not infected. It usually takes up to 12 weeks for your body to make HIV antibodies. A test done before 12 weeks may not show correct results.

You will be told if you need another test.

• Have you ever had sex with someone infected with HIV/AIDS?
• Have you had unprotected anal or vaginal sexual intercourse with several partners?
• Have you had a sexually transmitted disease since 1978?
• Have you or your sexual partner(s) shared needles to take drugs or other substances?
• Have you had a blood transfusion between 1978 and 1986?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, choosing to be tested can be very important to you and your health.

If you are tested, and you do not have HIV, you can protect yourself from future infection.

If you do have HIV, you can find out how to keep yourself healthy longer and how to protect your partner or partners. It is important that you are tested early, before you become sick. Many people who are tested early during HIV infection continue to live healthy lives.

You will get counselling before and after testing. Counsellors will give you information, answer your questions and provide support to help you understand and deal with your test results.

To arrange for a test, see the directory of testing clinics below. You will not be asked for your real name.