HIV test

HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. Specifically, it attacks CD4 cells (T cells). When HIV targets these cells, the body becomes more vulnerable and may have a harder time fighting disease and become more susceptible to infections and certain types of cancer.

Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, a serious and life-threatening condition. Fortunately, many effective treatments have become available, allowing many people with HIV to live long, healthy lives.

After being infected with HIV, various symptoms can occur. Early signs can include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and rash. In some cases, HIV doesn't show any symptoms until the later stages. Therefore, regular screening is essential, especially if you belong to a high-risk group.

HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex, infected blood products or from mother to child during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding. Over 90% of transmission occurs through sexual contact. HIV can also be transmitted by sharing needles or syringes with an infected person.

Understanding how the virus is transmitted is crucial to effectively protect against infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to living well with HIV.

HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluid or breast milk. The most common routes of transmission include:

• Unprotected intercourse with an infected partner
• Sharing needles or syringes with an infected person
• Mother to child transfer during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding
• Blood transfusions with infected blood (although this is rare in countries with modern medical systems).

HIV and AIDS are related, but not the same. HIV is the virus that causes the infection, while AIDS is the most severe stage of HIV infection. AIDS is diagnosed when a person with HIV develops certain infections or when the CD4 cell count drops to a very low level.

When the number of CD4 cells in the blood decreases, you become more susceptible to infections and cancers that would normally be fought off by a healthy immune system. If you develop one of these diseases in addition to the HIV infection itself, you have developed AIDS.

With effective treatment, many people with HIV can live long lives without developing AIDS.

In Denmark, around 6,800 people are living with HIV. In recent years, there has been a decrease in the number of people diagnosed with HIV. This indicates that the HIV curve has broken and that we can become one of the first countries without new HIV cases.

Thanks to advanced medical treatments, most of these people have a good quality of life and can live a long and healthy life. However, it is important to diagnose and treat HIV early for the best results.

An HIV test is the only sure way to know if you have HIV. The test is quick, painless and anonymous. The test works by detecting the presence of HIV antibodies or virus particles in the blood.

Regular testing is recommended if you are sexually active and have changing partners or if you are in any other risk group. Early diagnosis provides access to treatment that can prevent the virus from progressing to AIDS.

HIV cannot be cured, but it can be effectively controlled with antiretroviral therapy (ART), which helps keep the virus in check and protects the immune system. Treatment with ART also makes it less likely to transmit the virus to others.

It is important for people living with HIV to follow their treatment plan carefully and take the medication as prescribed by their doctor. Regular doctor visits and tests are also part of treatment to monitor the effects of treatment and assess any side effects.

While ART does not cure HIV, it has revolutionized the treatment of the disease, transforming it from a potentially fatal condition to a chronic, manageable disease for many people.

Prevention is a crucial component in the fight against HIV. This includes using condoms during sex, regular HIV testing and, in some cases, preventative medication like PrEP. Get informed about how you can protect yourself and others and talk to your doctor about the different prevention options.

Are you concerned about your status or want more information about HIV prevention, diagnosis and treatment? Book an appointment with one of our experienced doctors who can give you the help and guidance you need.

Our team of health experts are here to support you through every stage of the process, from testing to treatment and follow-up.

Book an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier life.