Why is testing for HIV so important?
Knowing your HIV status gives you powerful information to keep you, your partners, and your community healthy. This is the only way to control HIV.
Is testing free?
Yes, local HIV testing is a free service. The state of Ohio has a program where they will mail you a free home test. You can also buy a home test at most pharmacies.
How often should I get tested?
Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. For people with certain risk factors, CDC recommends getting tested at least once a year. If you have sex without using protection (condoms or PrEP) you should get tested right away.
What is PrEP?
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medicine that provides up to 99% protection from HIV. These antiviral drugs are called Truvada and Descovy (pills) and Apretude (injection).
Can anyone take PrEP?
PrEP is for HIV negative people at risk for HIV through sex or intravenous drug use. Ask your health care provider if PrEP is right for you.
Is PrEP safe?
PrEP is a safe and highly effective HIV prevention option. Some people get headaches or nausea which may last a few days or weeks.
How can I afford PrEP, and where can I get it?
PrEP is covered by Medicaid and most private insurance plans. If you don’t have any health insurance look for other special PrEP assistance programs that may cover the cost. Check out the resources below.
What is U=U?
It stands for Undetectable equals Untransmittable. If you have HIV and you take medication as recommended, you can get to an undetectable status, where the virus is so low that a blood test will not detect it. It is scientifically proven that being undetectable there is ZERO risk of transmitting the virus through sex.
How long does it take for my viral load (i.e. the amount of HIV in my blood) to become undetectable?
For most people, their viral load becomes undetectable after 3 to 6 months of treatment. You are considered undetectable when all viral load test results are undetectable for at least six months after your first undetectable test result. Your viral load can only be determined by a lab test.
If my HIV is undetectable and my partner is HIV negative, is it still necessary to use condoms?
A combination of PrEP and condoms will provide maximum protection. While PrEP protects HIV negative people from getting the virus, using condoms is recommended to prevent STIs (sexually transmitted infections) like gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia. Always discuss your preferred means of protection with your partner.
