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Practical effects of having the HIV test

Looking after yourself

If your test results are positive, knowing you have HIV will allow you to get advice and counselling about your own future health. There are new combination treatments that can help delay the onset of AIDS. You can discuss whether or when tostart the treatments with medical staff at the clinic. Starting your treatment at the right time can affect how well it works.

Life insurance

If you apply for life insurance you will be asked if you are HIV positive. If you are, your application is likely to be turned down. By law, the insurance contract will not be valid if you do not give accurate information. You will also be asked to give permission for your GP to provide information from your medical records about any positive HIV test result. These days, you should not be asked if you have ever had an HIV test and tested negative.

 

Employment protection

A number of employers now have a policy that prevents discrimination against people because they are HIV positive. And in some cases, it is illegal to discriminate against someone with HIV.

Visas

Some countries do not allow people with HIV to enter the country, or need proof of a negative test result before they will issue a visa or work permit.

What do I say or do if I know someone has HIV?

Someone with HIV or AIDS is just like everybody else and should be entitled to privacy and respect. The last thing someone with HIV needs to have to deal with is other people’s fears and prejudices. Remember, you are not at risk of infection from someone with HIV through everyday social contact. Don’t break up a friendship because someone you know has HIV or AIDS. Friendship and support are two of the most important things you can offer.