A member asked:

If i was possibly infected with hiv 14 days ago, would the antibody test i took today most likely be positive by now?

6 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Jeffrey Ng answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

Maybe...Maybe not.: Conversion to HIV positive status can take up to 6 months. Usually there is a flu like illness when the conversion takes place, but that is not a given. Usually you need to take 2 HIV tests 6 months apart when doctors get stuck by a needle of a HIV patient. Go see your doctor for a more detailed explanation.

Answered 6/10/2014

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Dr. Donald Alves answered

Specializes in Emergency Medicine

Depends: Depending on the test, can be 1-3 or 2-8 weeks as "window period" for HIV testing. 97% of infected persons will test positive if infected by 12 weeks/3 months. So should re-test at 3 months. Should also use condoms all the time to protect yourself from this life-long condition.

Answered 6/10/2014

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Dr. Ricky Hsu answered

Oftentimes not: The first antibody response usually starts in approximately 1-2 weeks with a person's antibody reaction to the surface (envelope) of hiv. Many of the other antibody responses that signify a patient's infection don't occur until HIV has been replicating (2-4 weeks). A HIV pcr should be run if infection is of concern. Early on. This is available at most doctors offices, but should be confirmed.

Answered 6/10/2014

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