Question

Is there only HIV-1 and -2 or are there be different strains that an antibody test would not pick up?

15 December 2010. Related: All topics, HIV testing.

Answer

Answer: Charlotte Walker

Thank you for your question.

There are 2 types of HIV (HIV-1 and HIV-2). Then each type of HIV has subtype groups and the subtype groups have strains. For more information please follow this link.

The HIV tests are designed to pick up any infection regardless of type, subtype group or strain.