1. How do I know whether I should get tested for HIV?

Consider getting tested if:

• you are sexually active,
• you are pregnant,
• you have shared needles or syringes for injecting drugs
• you have been diagnosed with hepatitis, tuberculosis or a sexually transmitted disease.

To find a testing site near you visit National HIV and STD Testing Resources.

2. How confidential are HIV test results?

Your HIV status, like other medical conditions and test results, is protected by the HIPAA Privacy Rule and cannot be shared with friends, family, or employers without your written permission. Your HIV status may be shared with your health care providers who have a “need to know” in order to treat you. Also, in order to determine the incidence of HIV and to provide appropriate prevention and care services, all new cases of HIV are reported to state and local health departments. As of April 2008, data from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 5 dependent areas (American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) are collected using a confidential name-based reporting system.

Certain testing centers provide either anonymous (your name is never given) or confidential (your name is given but kept private) HIV testing and counseling. The FDA has approved one home-testing device that allows you to remain anonymous and to get confidential results. You can also contact your state, county, or city health department to find out where testing may be available.

3. Should I tell anyone else of my results?

Yes. If you test positive for HIV, it is important that you tell your health care providers as well as all current and future sex partners and/or anyone with whom you share needles. Counseling services are often available from the clinic that performed the test or from your health care provider that will help you to inform the people who need to know.

4. Can you get HIV/AIDS from donating blood?

No. It is very safe to donate blood because sterile needles are used.