HIV testing

The situation in our hospitals is a total disaster, I agree... but it’s still not quite at the level of a catastrophe where someone is drawing blood with an unsterile needle... Let's not panic just yet...

Jesse Long2 said:Can we all just agree that the healthcare situation here is basically a mirror image of what you see in places like Mexico or Brazil?

Generally speaking, I can't speak for everyone since I don't know the full scope, but based on certain regions and the experiences shared by other patients in those areas, I’d say the US is perhaps a step or two ahead of Canada (though I couldn't say for sure about Mexico). I can also personally attest—from my own experience—to how much things can vary; for instance, a major medical center like the Mayo Clinic is a world apart from some of the smaller local hospitals you might find elsewhere—and in this case, the difference is quite stark.

Regardless, when we are talking about matters as grave as HIV and needle safety, I honestly think any further debate is somewhat redundant. It seems far more likely that an alien would show up to serenade you outside your window than for someone to actually contract HIV from a needle in one of our hospitals or anywhere else in the world.

Jesse Long2 said:Can we all just agree that the healthcare situation here is basically a mirror image of what you see in places like Mexico or Brazil?

We absolutely cannot agree on that, and frankly, that’s not even the point of this discussion. I’m asking you to dial back the trolling. You’re making me seriously consider locking this thread, though it’s more likely I’ll just start scrubbing your bait posts because I have no interest in letting one person derail a conversation for everyone else.

Hey there!
My apologies if this isn't the right sub; moderators, please feel free to move this if necessary.

I’m heading to Taiwan for my studies, and to secure my resident visa, I have to provide proof that I am not HIV-positive, along with vaccination records for things like Rubella and German Measles.

I’ve already been vaccinated for Hepatitis and Typhoid before traveling to Asia—I know those services are available at a local CVS—but those specific shots aren't on their standard list.

Does anyone have any insight regarding HIV testing (not an anonymous screening, but an official document for legal purposes)? Also, does anyone know the costs and typical turnaround times for Rubella testing and vaccinations?

Most importantly, who is the best point of contact? Should I reach out to the CDC, a specialized clinic, or just head to my primary care physician to get a formal referral?

Thanks in advance, and sorry if these questions seem a bit naive; I’m still getting used to how the healthcare system works here.🙂

For information regarding HIV, you can check here:

It lays out exactly what you'll need to do when it comes to getting your paperwork in order. As for rubella, my understanding is that the NIH handles that. Though, honestly, they might be able to assist with the HIV testing too... so, there you go, I've been helpful, haven't I? 😁

If I were you, I'd just give the Department of Public Health a call first; they’ll be your best bet for figuring out the specifics—the when, the where, and the how of the whole process.

Yes, thank you, thank you! That link is perfect—exactly what I was looking for. 🙂
I’m really hoping the testing is free of charge, just like the anonymous options. 😁

I have a question regarding the Elisa Duo/Combo test—specifically the fourth-generation version commonly used here in the States. Why is there a requirement to wait a full six weeks after the last potential exposure? If this test detects the virus itself as early as two weeks out, and the antibodies that neutralize the virus typically emerge by week four, why the extra wait for those antibodies? Aren't we effectively negative if the test comes back negative at, say, 26 days?
Many thanks.

Hello everyone. I just completed my second test, and thank God, it came back negative. It has been 9.5 weeks now.
Is there any real necessity for me to go back after the 12-week mark? My doctor mentioned it isn't required, but I am still considering going.
I would value your perspective on this. Thank you.

Wait, isn't it supposed to be three months after that risky encounter before you even bother? I mean, if you really want to be absolutely sure, you can always just go back and test again after six months...

🤷