Q and A

Question

Can a positive person test negative again?

Can a positive person test negative again?

Answer

Hi, how are you doing?

No. HIV tests look for antibodies.

Antibodies are what the body makes in response to HIV.

These antibodies remain in the body and do not leave over time.

This means that an HIV test will remain positive once you have tested as such.

Josh.

44 comments

  1. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Mercy, for information about testing please see here: https://i-base.info/qa/factsheets/hiv-transmission-and-testing

  2. Mercy

    Can someone tested positive and till be showing reactive on same result.??

    After placing the person on drugs some sign red as if is mosquito bit appear like red dot in one skin, what could that b

  3. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Hajarahmustafah, this is not possible. To be confirmed HIV positive a positive test is required. There is no way of being HIV positive without a confirmed test.

    If a test is negative it proves that the person does not have HIV. Is there a reason you think someone can have HIV without a positive test?

    For more information about testing please see here: https://i-base.info/qa/factsheets/hiv-transmission-and-testing

  4. Hajarahmustafah

    Hi Dr. But some people test negative yet they are HIV Positive
    What’s the reason for that please???? What causes that ????

  5. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Josaphat, how long after this exposure did you have your first test?

    In most cases you are likely still negative, however it is still always recommended to have regular HIV checks. This is to ensure that you are always aware of your status and looking after your own health.

    HIV testing and transmission: https://i-base.info/qa/factsheets/hiv-transmission-and-testing

  6. Josaphat

    I test negative after 1 year in 2022-03 -2023-02. I had sex with one girl but I got a news after 1 year that she is HIV positive . I’m still negative or can I go to the test again?

  7. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Lulu, what is the type of test that you have been using? and what test did you use to first find out you were HIV positive?

  8. lulu

    I test hiv positive 2 months ago. Started treatment and I repeated the test 3days ago,it came out negative and yesterday,it also came out negative. What does it mean?

  9. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Ben, the symptoms you have mentioned are most likely caused by stress and anxiety. It is a little early for tests to be accurate. It is a good sign that this test was negative but to be sure another test will be needed. A 4th generation test is conclusive from 42 days after an exposure. The 3rd generation test needs a little longer and is only conclusive from 90 days and onwards.

  10. Ben

    My brother got exposed to a hiv pos 35days ago he is worried he has contracted he went for a test today it came out neg 3rd gen test is it a good sign he doesn’t have any seroconversion symptoms apart from a dry mouth and feeling tired i think its due to anxiety.