The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that can infect humans and cause them acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, unlike with most other viral infections, the human immune system is unable to produce antibodies to combat it. At this time there is no effective cure for AIDS and the treatment’s focus on it is on keeping low the count of the HIV virus in the body. HIV can be transmitted from one human to another mainly by:unprotected sexual contactintravenous drug usepregnancy, childbirth and breastfeedingexposure to a carrier’s bodily fluids. HIV tests are carried out to detect the presence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Analyses can be performed on blood, urine or saliva. The tests look for specific antibodies, antigens or Ribonucleic acid (RNA). Early detection of the HIV virus is of paramount importance as AIDS can be prevented or delayed with the proper medication. The “Window period”, or the time it takes for the virus to be detected from time of infection is between three weeks and three months. Statistics show that 25% of infected individuals are unaware of their status. Routine HIV testing is recommended. Additionally it is important to get tested if:You share drug injection equipmentYou have unprotected high risk sex. A blood sample is required to perform the necessary tests for HIV. It is a simple process with only a momentary slight pain from the needle stick. Method of test usedAt Stephanos Pavlides Laboratory we test the sample blood for:All HIV-AIDS diagnostic tests are performed in our Clinical Laboratory in Limassol. Results are usually available within XXX. As with all other tests results are confidential. Test results parametersPositive or Negative