What are the window periods for each reportable STBBI (specific to MB) - syphilis, HIV, Hep B, Hep C, and CT/GC?

Sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) testing methods can vary depending on where you live. In Manitoba, infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are reportable. This means that if you test positive, your results go to the … Read Full Answer

How can I address people who are close-minded and start to talk about how they think that an HIV positive person (detectable or undetectable) is dangerous?

Scientific evidence has confirmed that most people with HIV who take antiretroviral treatment (ART) as prescribed can suppress the HIV virus in their body. When an HIV positive person maintains an undetectable level of HIV through medical care and medication, they cannot transmit HIV to someone else sexually, with or without the use of a condom.
Close-mindedness like you describe is a form of HIV stigma. Stigma is defined as negative attitudes … Read Full Answer

Last week I went to an erotic massage parlour. I got a handjob (and she stayed clothed). I am not circumcised and had a razor cut at the base of my penis. I know that hand-to-genital contact is zero risk (HIV has to come from somewhere!) It wasn’t a major bleed, but she had a cut on her hand on the palm which I saw after the fact. It was hard for me to check my penis for blood.

We understand that situations like these can be tough to navigate, and we’re happy to help. … Read Full Answer

I recently did 2 INSTI HIV self-tests within the past 6 months and it was negative both times. I was told by a few people that if the test is negative after 12 weeks and done properly there's no need to follow up for a lab confirmation. I waited 90 days after my first INSTI test was negative and the 2nd one was also negative. Am I all good or do I need a lab confirmation?

Congratulations on using the INSTI HIV self-test. This quick and simple tool is one more way that Canadians access to find out their HIV status. A self-test … Read Full Answer

4 years ago I had multiple unprotected sex with hiv+ men (who is not on medication) then few weeks after I came up with sore throat, rash, headache, runny nose which all cleared up except for the runny nose that later turns to chronic sinusitis and ever since my health never been the same. I did 4 HIV tests (4th generation antigen antibody test) 1 came back indeterminate and the other 3 negative. Could HIV 4th gen give false negative after 4 years?

Good to know you got the tests done. Labs across Canada use 4th generation tests for screening HIV, which means they are 99 percent accurate by 6 weeks after infection. These tests are highly accurate and … Read Full Answer