HIV testing is a key component in reducing transmission rates. Once a person receives a positive result, they can immediately begin antiretroviral therapy, which preserves health and reduces the viral load to make future transmission less likely. They can also reach out to any recent sexual partners, who can undergo their own tests, and if needed, also begin treatment.
While the major strain of HIV can easily be detected via testing, other strains have proven challenging. Fortunately, continued HIV research and advancements have resulted in more accurate testing options.
Group O (which stands for Outlier) HIV infections are mostly contained within the Central African country of Cameroon. Unlike the major strain of HIV, group O passed from gorillas to humans (whereas the most common form of HIV jumped from chimpanzees to humans).
When using older HIV tests, the group O strain can sometimes avoid detection. This is highly problematic, as an infected person may mistakenly receive a negative test result and continue to transmit the virus to others. Newer, more advanced tests can detect group O strains, as well as the equally rare group N strain of HIV (which researchers believe originated in Cameroon as well).
Receiving an HIV diagnosis remains upsetting, but bear in mind that treatments have improved exponentially over the years. Through medication, it is possible to reduce a person’s viral load to the point that it may no longer be detectable. As a result, many people with HIV are able to maintain health and happiness throughout their lives.
In South Africa, the National Department of Health has clear guidelines on testing procedures. Most people should undergo HIV testing every six months to one year, while pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding should be tested every three months.