An HIV test will test for the presence of HIV antibodies. (Part of the immune system’s response is to produce antibodies to fight infection. These are protein molecules that develop in response to foreign organism in the body). If a person is infected with HIV the body produces antibodies and the person is said to be “positive” (HIV +). If antibodies are not found the person is said to be HIV “negative” (HIV-).

However, after being infected with the virus there is a period when the body will not produce antibodies right away. This is called the Window period. Within this period the individual is already infected but as it may take time for the antibodies to become detectable in the system, tests will not show positive results. The window period for most people will last between 3-12 weeks. In extremely rare instances it can last up to 6 months. It is important to take a confirmatory test at the end of the window period.

Types of Tests

Two types of HIV tests are common in Canada

1. Standard HIV antibody Testing- A blood sample is taken and sent to an HIV testing laboratory. Results are returned to the individual within a 14-day period.

2. Point of Care Testing (POCT)/ Rapid testing- HIV screening is provided at the point of care (“on site” or at the facility where an individual has gone for testing) and preliminary results are given to the individual that day. A blood sample from a finger poke is used and test results are determined to be either “reactive” or “non-reactive”. All POCT test, regardless of the result, are sent to the lab where confirmatory tests are carried out.

Testing Options

1. Name Based Testing (Nominal)

• Samples and specimens all have the name of the individual requesting the tests. Confidential test results are documented in the individual’s medical chart

2. Coded (Non-Nominal/ Un-named Testing):

• Samples and specimens are sent to the laboratory using a unique code. As names are not used the identity of the individual is not known to anyone outside of the point of care facility.
• Confidential test results are documented in the individual’s medical chart

3. Anonymous Testing (rarely done, offered only if client has special needs for privacy)

• Samples and Specimens are sent to the Laboratory using an eight-digit number. The individual is given a card with the same number that must be presented when obtaining results.
• Anyone who presents the card will be able to obtain the results.
• The HIV test is not referred to in any part of the regular medical chart

All positive HIV test results require that contact tracing be done to notify partners at risk.

If you have any questions or concerns about testing, please call the Sexual Health Info Line. It’s FREE & Confidential:

Phone: (204) 945-2437

Toll Free: 1-800-782-2437

Available: Monday - Friday 9:30AM - 5:00PM