Testing
The only way to know for sure whether you have HIV is to have an HIV test.
Why should I get tested?
Knowing your HIV status is very important for your health. It’s also important for the health of your sexual partners and any people you share drug use equipment with.
Get a test if you:
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have had unprotected sex with someone whose HIV status you were unsure of (or you were put at risk for HIV due to sexual violence)
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are pregnant or planning to get pregnant
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shared drug use equipment (including steroids or hormones) with someone whose HIV status you were unsure of
Some people who become HIV positive have symptoms, like a fever, rash, or feeling like they have a severe flu, for the first month of infection. If you have any of these symptoms after a possible exposure to HIV, get tested right away. Let the person doing the test know about your symptoms. Not everyone has symptoms, however, and HIV cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone.
The only way to know for sure whether you have HIV is to have an HIV test.
Many places offer HIV testing.
Depending on where you live, you may be able to get an HIV test at a health clinic, doctor’s office, hospital, sexual health clinic, community organization or a public health unit.
Where can I get tested?
1) Talk to your GP/Physician
2) Algoma Public Health Sexual Health Clinic
3) HARP/Hep Care
4) HIV Self-Test I'm Ready, Test Mobile App
To find where you can get an HIV test in your area, visit HIV411.ca or call the sexual health hotline.
I'm Ready, Test
The I’m Ready, Test app:
Know your status
Download the free I’m Ready, Test app for your smart phone to order up to three HIV self-testing kits. If you want to test on your own, the I’m Ready, Test app will guide you through the testing process and connect you to information about HIV care and prevention. The app can also help you connect to optional peer navigator support through our I’m Ready, Talk secure telehealth service.
