HIV testing
There are several ways to get tested for HIV. Most HIV tests use a blood sample that is sent to a lab. Results usually take 1 to 2 weeks.
You can get tested at:
- HIV and STI testing clinics
- Your local health unit
- Some hospitals and health-care settings
- GetCheckedOnline, a confidential online testing service
Use the SmartSexResource clinic finder to find a testing location near you.
Rapid HIV testing
Some clinics offer rapid, point-of-care HIV testing.
- A small blood sample is taken from your finger and tested while you wait.
- Negative results are available within minutes.
- A reactive result needs to be confirmed with a lab test.
If you may have been exposed to HIV within the past 3 months, talk to a health-care provider about the best type and timing of testing.
Confidential and anonymous testing
HIV testing is confidential. In B.C., positive HIV results must be reported to public health.
You can request a non-nominal test, where only your first name, initials and date of birth are reported with a positive result instead of your full name.
Anonymous HIV testing is available at the Victoria Health Unit STI Clinic. No identifying or contact information is collected.
If you test positive
A positive HIV test means you have HIV. This can be difficult news, but HIV is now a manageable chronic condition. With treatment, people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives.
After a positive result, you will be connected with a health-care provider who can help you start treatment and access support.
You may also be offered support with:
- Understanding your diagnosis and treatment
- Protecting your health
- Preventing HIV transmission to others
- Letting recent sexual partners know they may need testing
If you need urgent support, call the 24-hour Vancouver Island Crisis Line at 1-888-494-3888.
You can also talk to a nurse at 8-1-1.
HIV treatment
HIV treatment uses medications to lower the amount of HIV in your body. Taking treatment as prescribed helps protect your immune system, prevents HIV from progressing to AIDS and helps prevent passing HIV to others.
HIV treatment is provided at no cost to eligible people living in B.C.
Talk to your health-care provider about treatment options and support with taking your medication as prescribed.
For more information about HIV treatment, visit CATIE.