You can call 523-2128 to set up an appointment for a free HIV test at the Health Department in Elkhart.

HIV test is most accurate if done three months after your most recent risk occurrence such as unprotected sex, sharing needles etc. You do not need to do an HIV test on a regular basis unless you feel you have been at risk for the virus.

HIV test is required for some studies. You will be informed in the screening process as to whether or not you will need to be tested for HIV, and our doctor will counsel you about AIDS, HIV and issues relating to the test. You will be told the result in a confidential manner.

Yes. To learn more about testing procedures and locations in Bermuda call the Bermuda Department of Health at 236-0224.

There are many things you can do to help protect your health if you test positive for HIV. Seeking health care early and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help a person stay healthy. Some specific things you can do if you're positive for HIV are: See a doctor, even if you feel well. If possible, see a doctor who is familiar with treating people with HIV. Health care providers can inform you on what tests and drug treatment are right for you.

No. The test for HIV can only tell you if you have been infected or not. Transmission of the virus does not necessarily occur every time exposure occurs. The only way for an individual to tell if he/she has been infected with HIV is to be tested. If you are unsure of your partner's status, you may want to consider talking to him/her about it and using protection (latex condoms or dental dams) to reduce your risk.

How do I assess the level of risk of contracting HIV or STD's based on my own exposure? Maybe I don't need a test.

No approved HIV test kit will give you a result at home. There is a kit available that is designed for you to collect a sample of your blood at home. Then you send the sample to a laboratory where it is tested for HIV.

If you test positive for HIV, the sooner you take steps to protect your health, the better. Early medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well. Prompt medical care may delay the onset of AIDS and prevent some life-threatening conditions. There is much you can do to stay healthy. Learn all that you can about maintaining good health.

What many people call the "AIDS test" is not a test for AIDS, but for antibodies to the virus that cause AIDS- the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The immune system reacts to the HIV infection by producing antibodies that fight HIV. The test detects these antibodies. Therefore, the test is accurately called the "HIV Antibody Test".

Yes. Please call either of the Butte County Public Health clinics located in Chico and Oroville, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and ask to make an appointment for an HIV test.