how long does it take hiv to show in blood test
If you test negative on an HIV RNA test after two weeks of possibly being exposed, you are very likely HIV-negative. If you test negative on a 4th generation rapid test or lab assay that detects HIV antigens (part of the HIV virus) in addition to antibodies after three or four weeks after possibly being infected, you are very likely HIV-negative. And if you test negative on an antibody test taken 3 months or longer after your last possible risk of possible exposure to HIV, you are likely HIV-negative. The person who gives you your HIV test will have additional information about the test's window period.. For this reason, we recommend that people who are having sex get tested routinely every 3 months. Routine testing is painless and ensures that if you do get infected, you can start treatment right away.