HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus which weakens and destroys the body's ability to fight infection and illness. HIV is the main cause of AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). HIV is in the bodily fluids of an infected person - including semen, vaginal and anal fluids, blood, and breast milk. HIV cannot be transmitted through sweat, urine, or saliva. The most common way of getting HIV in the UK is through having unprotected sex with an infected partner, but the virus can also be caught by sharing needles during drug use. Some people experience flu-like symptoms for around two-six weeks after an HIV infection. After the symptoms disappear, HIV may not cause further symptoms for many years, but the virus continues to damage the immune system. Many people do not know that they are infected.

Hepatitis B and C are liver infections caused by a virus that is spread through blood and bodily fluids. Hepatitis B can be passed from person to person through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and also by infected needles or syringes. Hepatitis C, the most common type of viral hepatitis in England, is usually transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Although many people experience no symptoms, hepatitis B and C may cause flu-like symptoms, fatigue, jaundice, and fever.

Our confidential blood test looks for specific HIV antibodies that are produced shortly after infection. A p24 antigen test is also carried out to increase the chances of detecting an infection sooner after exposure. You can also check for hepatitis B and C infections with this test.

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