HIV, also known as the human immunodeficiency virus, causes a person̢‰s immune system to deteriorate. Because of the immune system is compromised, a person is susceptible to life endangering infections or cancers. A person can become infected with HIV by coming into contact with the semen, breast milk, pre-ejaculate, vaginal fluid and blood of an infected person. Sharing contaminated needles with an infected person is another way a person can become infected.

HIV can lead to AIDS, acquired immune deficiency syndrome. People have acquired AIDS when they start to acquire infections and cancer. People are also considered to have AIDS when their CD4 cells, also called T-helper cells, drop below 200. CD4 cells are white blood cells that fight infection. When the numbers of these cells drop, the body is unable to fight infection.

The HIV Test with Preliminary Confirmation helps people detect HIV and begin a course of action if the results are positive. While there is currently no cure for AIDS, the earlier the virus is detected the sooner an anti-retroviral treatment can begin. Anyone sexually active should be periodically tested. According to the Center for Disease Control, 25% of people infected with HIV/AIDs do not know they are infected.

Schedule your HIV test today at the Health Testing Centers.