If you suspect for any reason that you may have HIV, you need to complete a HIV test. The easiest way to do so is with a HIV home test kit. Below we’ll discuss everything you need to know about HIV test kits, including the average HIV test kit price.
What is HIV?
HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus) is a serious viral infection most commonly caught via contact with bodily fluids. For example, during sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal, and sometimes even oral sex. You cannot catch HIV from sweat or urine.
HIV can also be contracted by sharing contaminated needles or, in extreme cases, surgical procedures, especially in foreign countries where sterilization procedures are not stringent. The final way a person can contract HIV is between a mother and child, during childbirth or breastfeeding.
Any contact with HIV-infected bodily fluids, including semen, vaginal or anal fluids, blood, or breastmilk, should be followed with a HIV test kit.
Testing cannot occur until 28 days after potential exposure.
What are the symptoms of HIV?
In many cases, there are no immediate symptoms. However, some people experience flu-like symptoms, including:
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches and pains
If you do feel symptoms, they will subside in a matter of days/weeks. Then, the virus may remain dormant for many years before progressing.
What is a HIV test kit?
HIV test kits are a reliable and discreet method of testing for HIV. With a home HIV test kit, you do not need to visit a doctor. Nor do you need to go to the hospital. Instead, just follow the instructions listed in the kit.
Typically, using the equipment, it involves putting a small drop of blood into a container. You must make sure to be sterile as you do so. Cleaning equipment will be provided.
Then, label the sample and send it off in the post. A laboratory will discreetly test your blood for both antibodies and the p24 antigen. Together, they’re over 99.9% accurate in testing for HIV.
Finally, you will receive your results by either phone, email, or post – depending on your chosen method.
If you test positive, it must be confirmed using a more reliable test such as a Western Blot.
What is the average HIV test kit price?
Here at FAMKA, our HIV (1&2) 3 Pack Rapid Test Kit (Home Test Kit) costs R 165.22 (not including shipping). That’s considerably cheaper than other test kits available – without sacrificing quality.
Many HIV test kit prices range from R 195.00 to R 210.00 or even more.
Can I buy a HIV test kit in a South African pharmacy?
HIV test kits can be purchased over-the-counter at a South African pharmacy. However, many people value discretion. Therefore, they prefer to buy their HIV home test kit online.
If you value discretion and cost, FAMKA’s our HIV (1&2) 3 Pack Rapid Test Kit (Home Test Kit) is the most reliable test kit available.