If you suspect for any reason that you may have HIV, you need to complete a test. The easiest way to do so is with a HIV home test kit. Below we’ll discuss everything you need to know about HIV test kits, including the average rapid test kit price.

What is HIV?

HIV (the Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a serious viral infection most commonly spread through contact with bodily fluids. For example, during sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal, and sometimes even oral sex. You cannot catch HIV from sweat or urine.

HIV can also be contracted by sharing contaminated needles or, in extreme cases, through surgical procedures, especially in foreign countries where sterilisation procedures are not stringent. The final way a person can contract HIV is between a mother and child, during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Any contact with HIV-infected bodily fluids, including semen, vaginal or anal fluids, blood, or breastmilk, should be followed with a HIV test kit.

It is important for you to take note of the incubation period and the window period. This is necessary to ensure that you get an accurate result.

1 – 4 weeks incubation period

30 – 90 days window period

What are the symptoms of HIV?

In many cases, there are no immediate symptoms. However, some people experience flu-like symptoms, including:

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches and pains

What is a rapid HIV test kit?

HIV rapid test kits are a reliable and discreet method of testing. With a home test kit, you do not need to visit a doctor. Nor do you need to go to the hospital to take the test. Instead, you can follow the instructions that are provided with the kit.

The test kit comes complete with everything that you will need to take the test. The test is a whole blood finger-prick test. It is best to work in a clean space.

Because this is a rapid test, you will get your results within 15 Minutes. You do not need to send back any samples.

If you test positive, it must be confirmed using a more reliable test, such as a Western Blot, which can be done with the guidance of your doctor and a laboratory.

Can I buy an HIV test kit in a South African pharmacy?

Rapid test kits can be purchased at health stores across South Africa. However, many people value discretion, so they prefer to buy their HIV home test kit online.