FAQ

  • What is HIV Self Test?

    HIV Self Test (HIVST) is a process in which a person collects his or her own specimen (oral fluid or blood) using a simple rapid HIV test and then performs the test and interprets the result, often in a private setting, either alone or with someone he or she trusts.1
    A reactive self-test result is not equivalent to an HIV-positive diagnosis. All reactive results need to be followed by further testing by a trained provider starting with the first test in the validated national testing algorithm.1
    Nonreactive results should be considered negative.1

  • What is the “window period”?

    After exposure to HIV, it can be 6 to 12 weeks before your body develops the antibodies detected by this test. This time is called the “window period”.
    If you take an HIV self-test during the window period, you may incorrectly get a negative result. If you believe you have recently been exposed to HIV, you are recommended to test again after the window period has passed.2

  • What happens if my test result is NEGATIVE?

    It is important to know if it has been more than 3 months since your last risk event. If it has, and you have performed the test correctly, then you are likely to be HIV negative. If it has been less than 3 months since your risk event, you will need to test again in 3 months.2
    Important: Retest after 3 months.

  • What happens if my test result is POSITIVE?

    Being HIV positive is a manageable condition and people living with HIV are able to live long, active and healthy lives. Mylan HIV Self Test is a screening test and getting a positive test result does not necessarily mean that you have HIV. If the test result is positive, you need to go for follow-up testing at a healthcare facility. Early diagnosis of HIV means treatment can start sooner.2
    Only your doctor or healthcare professional can recommend what treatment is right for you. If you are diagnosed as HIV positive, you will be connected to counseling services and, dependent on your condition, maybe given antiretroviral (ARV) treatment.2

  • What happens if my test doesn’t work?

    The test will not give a result if it is not performed correctly. You need to repeat the test using a new test device. If you are unsure if you have performed the test correctly, please speak to your doctor or healthcare professional.2

References

  • 1. HIV Self-Testing Strategic Framework, A guide for planning, introducing and scaling up, October 2018, World Health Organization; Available at: https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/275521; Accessed on 16 April 2022.
  • 2. Data on file: MHST-OA-011 Mylan HIV ST IFU English (WHO Version). Rev 6.