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Can you go from undetectable to detectable?
People also become detectable when they stop taking their HIV medications or take them only partially. It may take between a week to several weeks after stopping HIV treatment for HIV to become detectable again, but people will see the levels of virus in their body go up to detectable levels.
People with HIV who are on treatment and have an undetectable viral load cannot pass HIV on. This is what is meant by the slogan ‘Undetectable equals Untransmittable’ (‘U=U’). Not everyone taking HIV treatment has an undetectable viral load.
How long can a person stay undetectable?
A person’s viral load is considered “durably undetectable” when all viral load test results are undetectable for at least six months after their first undetectable test result. This means that most people will need to be on treatment for 7 to 12 months to have a durably undetectable viral load.
What viral load is considered undetectable?
The point at which a viral load is classified as being undetectable may vary across different countries depending on the tests available. But so long as your viral load is under 200 copies per millilitre, you’re considered virally suppressed and unable to pass HIV on.
What happens if you stop taking antivirals?
If you stop taking the drug suddenly or don’t take it at all: The symptoms of your viral infection may not get better, or may get worse. If you miss doses or don’t take the drug on schedule: Your medication may not work as well or may stop working completely.
How long can you stay undetectable?
These steps may include:
- Taking antiretroviral medication regularly and as directed. When taken properly, antiretroviral medication reduces viral load, thus decreasing the risk of transmitting HIV to others.
- Getting tested for STIs.
- Using condoms during sex.
- Considering PrEP.
- Considering PEP.
- Getting tested regularly.
What is the PCR test for HIV?
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for HIV. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests are used to detect HIV’s genetic material, called RNA. These tests can be used to screen the donated blood supply and to detect very early infections before antibodies have been developed.
What happens to HIV antibody tests when you are undetectable?
HIV ANTIBODIES WHEN YOU’RE UNDETECTABLE. Antibodies are still present in individuals living with HIV—even people who have suppressed their viral load. That means people living with HIV will still test positive for HIV on an antibody HIV test even if their viral load is undetectable. The virus may be undetectable,…
What is the most accurate HIV test?
Although PCR tests are the most accurate, they are not performed as often as the other HIV tests because they are expensive and also time- and labor-intensive. PCR tests can be used to screen the donated blood supply and to detect very early infections before antibodies have been developed.
What tests are used to detect HIV infection?
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) These tests can be used to screen the donated blood supply and to detect very early infections before antibodies have been developed. This test may be performed just days or weeks after exposure to HIV. Although these tests are the most accurate, they are not performed as often as the other HIV tests…