HIV Prevention and Testing Explained

What Is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system. Without treatment, it can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). With modern treatment, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives and achieve an undetectable viral load — meaning they cannot transmit HIV sexually.

Prevention Methods

Condoms

Consistent and correct condom use is one of the most effective ways to reduce HIV transmission risk during sex. Both external (male) and internal (female) condoms provide protection.

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP is medication taken by HIV-negative people who are at ongoing risk of HIV infection. When taken consistently, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex by about 99% (CDC — Preventing HIV with PrEP). PrEP is available in many countries and should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine if it is appropriate for you.

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PEP is emergency medication taken after a potential HIV exposure. It must be started within 72 hours (ideally as soon as possible) and taken for 28 days (CDC). PEP is available from hospitals and sexual health clinics.

Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision

Randomised trials found that voluntary medical male circumcision reduces men's risk of acquiring HIV through sex with women by approximately 60% (WHO). It does not eliminate risk and should be combined with other prevention methods.

Harm Reduction

For people who inject drugs, using clean needles and accessing harm reduction services reduces HIV transmission risk.

HIV Testing

Why Testing Matters

• Knowing your status allows you to access treatment early if positive.
• People who know their status can take steps to protect partners.
• Regular testing normalises the process and reduces stigma.

Types of Tests

• Rapid tests — Finger-prick blood test or oral swab. Results in 15–20 minutes. Available in clinics and sometimes community settings.
• Laboratory tests — Blood drawn and sent to a lab. More sensitive; can detect infection earlier.
• Self-test kits — Available in many countries. Oral swab or finger-prick. Should be confirmed with a clinic test if positive.

Testing Windows

A "window period" is the time between potential exposure and when a test can reliably detect HIV.

• Fourth-generation tests (detect antigen and antibody) — Reliable from about 4 weeks, highly accurate by 6 weeks (CDC — Getting Tested for HIV).
• Antibody-only tests — Reliable from about 6 weeks, definitive by 3 months.
• If you took PEP — Testing timelines may be different. Follow your clinician's advice.

A negative test 3 months after exposure is considered definitive for most test types.

Treatment as Prevention

People living with HIV who are on effective antiretroviral treatment and have achieved an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV through sex. This is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable), supported by extensive research.

This underscores the importance of early diagnosis and consistent treatment.

HIV in East and Southern Africa

East and Southern Africa remains the region most affected by HIV globally.

• According to UNAIDS, the region accounts for a significant proportion of new HIV infections worldwide.
• Adolescent girls and young women (aged 15–24) are disproportionately affected, with new infection rates substantially higher than among their male peers in many countries.
• Kenya has made significant progress in its HIV response, with increased access to testing, treatment, and prevention services, but challenges remain, particularly for young people and key populations.
• Addressing stigma, improving access to services for adolescents, and expanding PrEP access are key priorities.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If you have had a potential HIV exposure — seek PEP within 72 hours.
• If you want to start PrEP — talk to a healthcare provider about your eligibility.
• If you test positive — a healthcare provider will connect you with treatment and support services.
• If you have questions about your risk — a healthcare provider or testing counsellor can help assess your situation.