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STD⁄HIV Testing

What some people call the acquired immune deficiency syndrome or “AIDS” test is not at test for AIDS at all, but for antibodies to the virus that causes AIDS, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The immune system reacts to HIV infection by producing antibodies that fight HIV. The test detects these antibodies. Therefore, the test is accurately called the “HIV antibody test.”

You might want to consider being tested for HIV if:

  1. You have reason to think you’ve been infected (or have a high risk of being infected) with HIV.
  2. The knowledge of your test results, either positive or negative, will help you adopt safer sex practices or stop sharing IV needles.
  3. You are pregnant or are considering becoming pregnant, breast-feeding, or fathering a child.
  4. You will be required to undergo mandatory testing for military service, Foreign Service or Job Corps applications.

The IPFW/Parkview Health and Wellness Clinic offers anonymous (your name is never asked or recorded) HIV Testing and Counseling. The test involves HIV counseling, drawing a blood sample with a needle and syringe, and return to the clinic in 7-10 days for the test results. The total appointment requires about 30-45 minutes of your time.

If you are interested in this service, please call 260-481-5748 to schedule a time for the testing and inquire about fees. You can obtain STD testing at the same appointment. However, this testing cannot be anonymous. You must give your name if you desire additional testing.

Free testing can be done for Allen County residents at the Allen County Board of Health.