How to Tell if You Have HIV?

Get an HIV test; it is the only way to know for sure

Consider testing if you had unprotected sex

Consider testing if you shared needles or injection equipment

Consider testing if you had a recent STI

Consider testing if a sexual partner has HIV or unknown status

Consider testing if you were exposed to blood through a needle stick or blood contact

Watch for flu-like symptoms 2 to 4 weeks after exposure

Watch for fever

Watch for sore throat

Watch for rash

Watch for swollen lymph nodes

Watch for muscle aches

Watch for fatigue

Watch for mouth ulcers

Note that many people have no symptoms at all

Get tested again if the first test was done too soon after exposure

Use a clinic, doctor, urgent care, or community testing site

Use a home HIV test if available and follow the instructions exactly

Seek urgent medical care after a high-risk exposure to ask about post-exposure prophylaxis

Do not rely on symptoms alone to tell if you have HIV

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