HIV screening
A routine test recommended for everyone at least once - and more often with ongoing risk.
TypeBlood test
HowBlood draw, finger prick or oral swab.
How oftenAt least once for ages 15–65; more often with risk.
BeforeNo preparation.
WhoAll adults at least once.
Routine, simple, part of normal care
HIV testing is recommended for everyone at least once, regardless of risk. Early treatment means a near-normal life span, and people on effective treatment don’t pass it on sexually.
Once
“Why test if I’m low risk?”
Routine testing removes stigma and finds infections early.
Everyone
Ongoing risk
“How often should I test?”
More often with new partners or other risks.
Regular
Prevention
“Can I prevent it?”
PrEP is highly effective for people at risk.
Protect
Is it right for you?
Worth considering if…
- You’ve never been tested.
- You have new partners or other ongoing risk.
- You’re pregnant or planning pregnancy.
A better option if…
- You tested recently with no new risk - no need to repeat.
How it’s measured
Lab test
Antigen/antibody combination.
Home test
Oral swab or finger prick kits.
The full picture
What is it?
A test for HIV infection.
What type of test is it?
A blood or oral test.
What does it measure?
HIV antibodies and antigen.
Why might someone consider it?
Early diagnosis allows effective treatment.
Who is it most relevant for?
All adults at least once.
How is it performed?
A blood draw, finger prick or swab.
How often might it be considered?
Once, or more often with risk.
What can the result help you understand?
Whether you have HIV.
What are its limitations?
Very recent infections may be missed.
What should it be viewed with?
Other sexual health tests.
Where to get it
Through your provider
The simplest route - often covered when there’s a clear reason.
Lab services
e.g. Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp.
Direct-to-consumer panels
e.g. Function Health, InsideTracker.
Names are examples only, not endorsements. Your provider can often order the same test - and help interpret it.
Connected to
Questions to ask your provider
- How often should I be tested?
Ziva Health
One test is a snapshot. Ziva shows the whole story.
Ziva brings your lab results, wearables and daily readings together - and Isabella tells you what’s changing and what to ask your provider next.
Refer Ziva to my provider / care team
Is your provider not on Ziva yet? Send them a link in under a minute - once they join, they’ll see your HIV screening result alongside your other trends and get alerts directly.
Refer my providerAlready seeing your provider?
Bring your Ziva 30-day report to your next appointment - your HIV screening result and daily trends in one view, so the conversation starts with the full picture.
Get my 30-day reportNo provider? Find a clinical partner
Being listed doesn’t mean everyone needs this test. Educational only — not medical advice. Results should be interpreted with a qualified clinician. ← Back to Know What to Test