Testing

How do I know if I have HIV?

You may have HIV but not know it.

Some people do not get sick at all when they first get HIV.
A lot of people do feel a bit sick when they first get HIV but do not realise it is because of HIV.
It feels a bit like having a bad cold or flu, so that is what people can think they have.
After the first couple of weeks, many people do not have any illness from HIV for months or years.
You may have HIV even if you currently feel well. It is important to get tested before your immune system is too damaged.

The only way to know whether you have HIV is to have an HIV test.

If you are worried because you have been having unprotected sex or sharing needles, talk to your doctor or health worker about having a HIV test. Let them know if you have had a recent illness that felt like a bad cold or flu.

You can find out where your local sexual health clinic and Aboriginal Medical Service is on the Better to Know website at www.bettertoknow.org.au

The 715 Health Check is an annual health check for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

It is free at Aboriginal Medical Services and bulk billing GP clinics. Yarn to your doctor about including tests for HIV and other STIs in your 715 Health Check.

Check out video for more information on getting tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Your HIV test is your business