If you think you have been at risk or you just  want to know your status for certain, you could obtain a free VCT, Volunteering Counseling and Testing Service today at many VCT centers in Ethiopia. A blood test is the only method to detect HIV infection. But, HIV usually can not be detected in the blood through the test for three months after the infection take place. This means that if you are worried about something that happened a few days ago it will be three months before a test will give a definite result.

At a VCT center, all counseling and testing are handled in private and with complete confidential. A counselor will explain to you how the test is done and how the result will be given. You will have an opportunity to discuss why you think you are at risk, what result you might expect and how you might cope and help available. Then a doctor or nurse will take a small sample of blood to test for HIV antibodies.  After less than few hours, you will receive the test result and post counseling, whatever the result.

VCT centers .....

From HIV to AIDS

Individuals with HIV are infected for life and will probably die from opportunistic infections caused by the weakening of their immune system. Treatment with antiretroviral drugs (ARV) can slow the progression of HIV. Regular medication for opportunistic infections can substantially prolong the life of someone with HIV. In individuals who do not get antiretroviral therapy, the time between infection with HIV and the development of the serious illnesses that define AIDS is around eight to ten years, and most patients do not survive much more than two years after the onset of AIDS.

ART CENTERS....

Preventing transmission if you are infected ...

   Inform sexual partners. Always use condom.
   Do not share syringes or needles.
   Seek early and correct treatment for STDs.
   Inform any doctors or dentists consulted.
   Consider pregnancy carefully
   Cover any cuts or scratches with a dressing until healed.
   Do not share toothbrushes, razors or sharp instruments
   Do not donate blood, semen or organs (kidney, cornea, etc.)

Living with HIV ...