What does the test measure?

The HIV test is designed to determine whether you have been infected with HIV. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.

When you get infected with HIV, your body produces cells and particles to fight the virus. These particles are called antibodies. The HIV test can detect antibodies to HIV in your body. (The HIV antibodies are different from antibodies for the flu, a cold, or other infections.) If you have HIV antibodies, then you have been infected with HIV.

The test does not tell you if you have AIDS, how long you have been infected, or how sick you might be.

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