Question
Shall I have another test?
25 June 2008. Related: All topics, HIV testing, HIV transmission.
I have heard that HIV infection from a needle stick injury or blood transfusion has a longer window period, is it true?
I had unprotected sexual contact with an unknown source. I had some symptoms similar to primary HIV infection. I had HIV tests at 2, 5, and 12 weeks. They were all tests for antibody and p24 antigens. All were negative. Shall I test at 6 months?
Answer
Thank you for all your questions. As far as I know, there is no difference in window periods for all modes of HIV transmission.
As for your last question, it is safe to say that if your HIV test is negative at 12 weeks after exposure you are negative. However, if you feel better taking another test at 6 months, there is absolutely no harm in it.