What's an HIV test?
The HIV test we offer at TEST-IN is a 4th generation rapid test (DETERMINE™ HIV Screening Test). This test looks for:
- p24 antigen (a part of the virus that shows up early in your blood)
- antibodies against HIV
You get the results in just 20 minutes. This makes it perfect for quick and reliable screening right here.
When's the best time to get tested?
- An HIV test is reliable if you take it 6 weeks after a risky situation.
- You can get tested earlier, but it won't give you a final answer because the virus might not show up in the first few weeks.
- So, if you get tested before those 6 weeks are up, you'll need to get tested again after 6 weeks to be sure of the result.
How does the test work?
- We'll take a small blood sample – either from your fingertip or a vein.
- This sample is analyzed right away with the test.
- You'll get your results after 20 minutes.
What do the results mean?
- Negative: If we don't find any p24 antigen or HIV antibodies, and it's been at least 6 weeks since the risky situation, your result is considered HIV-negative.
- Reactive/Positive: If your result comes back reactive, it doesn't automatically mean you have an infection. In this case, you'll always need a confirmation test at a lab, because you can get false-positive results. Only if that test is also positive will you be diagnosed with HIV.
Advice and Support
We won't leave you alone with your test result:
- Before and after the test, we'll give you advice and you can ask all your questions.
- If your test is negative, we can give you a confirmation certificate with your name on it, if you want.
- If a result is confirmed positive, we'll refer you to specialist doctors.
Why is getting tested important?
- Getting an early diagnosis means you can start treatment quickly, which suppresses the virus and lets you live a healthy life.
- At the same time, getting treatment early also protects others, because with successful treatment, the virus can no longer be passed on.
You can either just drop by or book an appointment here.
Here are our free, anonymous, and personal advice services.
- Online advice
- phone advice at 044 455 59 15
- in person at the TEST-IN location)
You can find more info, like opening hours and how to reach our advice services, on the segz.ch website.
You can find answers to the most common questions in our HIV Test FAQs.
Other Services
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Anonymous sex education for young people aged 10-21, plus advice on sexual health.
A specialist center for queer people, offering preventive, medical, psychological, and psychosocial services for HIV & STIs.
Free tests & advice on sexually transmitted infections for people from Zurich up to 25 years old or with a KulturLegi.
Advice and anonymous tests for young people up to 21 years old for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.