When HIV infection occurs, flu-like symptoms can potentially develop soon after exposure. These early symptoms are often overlooked and any test administered during this time may not be accurate. HIV antibodies often take one to three months to develop to detectable levels. Contact your doctor for specific testing guidelines. This stage may last anywhere from a few months to more than a decade.
Some infected people show symptoms early on.
The person develops problems with infection from agents that normally do not make people sick. However, if you do decide to engage in risky behavior, be sure to protect yourself. Those already infected should avoid acquiring more infection from other infected persons. Never share an injection needle or use a needle that may have been used by another person. It s worth the wait for both to be tested.