HIV Testing

Authored By: Dr. Leonard Leng
Last updated: Jul 04, 2025

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (also known as T cells). These white blood cells are essential for defending the body against viruses, bacteria, and other harmful microorganisms. Over time, HIV can weaken or destroy these cells, reducing the body's ability to fight infections and illnesses. If HIV is not treated, it can develop into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is the advanced stage of HIV. At this stage, the immune system is severely damaged, making the body more vulnerable to serious health problems and certain cancers.

HIV transmission most often occurs through unprotected sexual contact involving exposure to certain body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and rectal fluids. It can also spread through sharing needles or from mother to child during pregnancy or breastfeeding. In Singapore, nearly all HIV cases have been transmitted through sexual activity with an infected partner.

A HIV infection leads to the presence of antigens (components of the virus) in the blood and stimulates the production of antibodies (proteins that fight infection). HIV tests can detect both antigens and antibodies to determine if a person is infected.

Within weeks of being infected with HIV, a person can experience flu-like symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Rashes
• Weight loss
• Night sweat
• Swollen lymph nodes

Once these symptoms disappear, a person may not experience symptoms for many years although the virus continues to damage the immune system and is still transmissible to others. This means people with HIV may not be aware they are infected. Over time, as the immune system weakens, more severe symptoms and infections occur, which can signal the progression to AIDS. From January to October 2023, almost half of all newly diagnosed cases of HIV in Singapore were late stage infections.

If you suspect that you have been exposed to HIV, it is strongly recommended to get tested as it is the only way to know if you are infected.

The window period, the time after being exposed to HIV till before a test can detect the infection, is between 1 and 3 months. If an initial test was done during the window period, it is recommended to get tested again after 3 months for more reliable results. Early testing is key to prompt diagnosis and treatment. Check with your chosen clinic on the types of HIV tests offered and consult your doctor if you are unsure about when you should test.

At present, there is no cure for HIV. Nonetheless, it can be successfully controlled through antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Treatment for HIV involves the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), a combination of medicines that help control the virus. ART reduces the viral load in the body to undetectable levels, preventing the progression to AIDS and reducing the risk of transmission. Consistent, lifelong adherence to ART is crucial for its effectiveness. Alongside medication, regular monitoring of health and immune function, a healthy lifestyle, and supportive care are integral to managing HIV.

At ATA Medical, testing for HIV requires a blood sample which typically takes less than 30 minutes to provide at our clinics. Our prices are listed as follows:

Alternatively, we also offer the HIV Ag/Ab Screen as part of all our STD screening packages. Based on your preference, we have female or male doctors to perform the tests.