HIV I And II Test In Kolkata - Price & Details

HIV infection is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that affects the body’s immune system. It may or may not produce any symptoms and may lead to a fatal stage of HIV, known as AIDS, if left undetected. Early HIV screening is important for the detection of the virus in the body and the prevention of fatal risks. HIV-I and HIV-II tests help detect the 2 strains of virus in the body, aiding early treatment and prevention.

HIV infection can spread through direct contact with the body fluids of an infected individual, placing certain groups at higher risk; therefore, HIV testing should be considered during the following:

• Routine screening: Recommended for all adults at least once as part of general healthcare.
• Sexual contact: Individuals with multiple sexual partners or those who have had unprotected sex with infected individuals.
• Blood contact: Sharing needles/syringes or donating blood, organs, or tissue.
• Accidental exposure: Healthcare workers handling body fluids are at high risk and should be tested if exposed.
• Pre-natal testing: HIV infection can pass from infected mothers to babies; pre-natal testing is crucial.
• Pre-surgery: Often required by hospitals before any major surgery.

The following signs or symptoms might be indicative of HIV infection and require testing before reaching a diagnosis:

• Persistent fever
• Muscle aches
• Joint pain
• Night sweats
• Sore throat
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash
• Sudden weight loss
• Unexplained fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or groin

HIV test frequency depends mainly on a person’s exposure risk or infection status. Check the table below to learn more:

Note: The above table is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider to find out how often you should get tested.

HIV-I and HIV-II tests help detect HIV infection from two variants of the virus:

• HIV-I infection: The most common strain of the virus globally and in India.
• HIV-II infection: A less common strain, primarily found in specific regions, which may progress more slowly.

What to Expect Before the Test?

• Fasting is usually not required.
• Inform your doctor about all current medications or any recent exposure.
• Always consult your healthcare provider for any special instructions beforehand.

What to Expect During the Sample Collection?

A blood sample is the only requirement for this test, and the steps for sample collection are explained below:

• An elastic band is tied around your upper arm for better access to veins.
• The skin is cleaned with an antiseptic, and a needle is inserted into the located vein.
• The needle is withdrawn after the sample is collected, and a bandage is placed over the site to prevent minor bleeding.

What to Expect After the Test?

• The test procedure is generally safe with minimal to no risks.
• If dizzy, sit and relax for a few minutes to recover.

Note: If you notice bruising, pain, or a rash at the puncture site after the test, consult your healthcare provider.

The HIV-I and HIV-II tests detect antigens and antibodies produced by the body in response to the virus. The test parameters and what they mean are represented in the table below:

Important note: Test results may vary from lab to lab. Early testing during the window period may give false results. Always consult your healthcare professional for interpretation of your test results.

• Window period: Testing too early may yield a false-negative result, as antibodies may not appear during the initial weeks of HIV infection.
• Supplements: High doses of biotin (vitamin B7) can occasionally interfere with lab results. It is best to skip it for 24 hours before the test.
• Sampling errors: Poor sample handling can lead to errors and yield false results.

In Kolkata, the usual price for an HIV test at PharmEasy is approximately INR 419. This cost may vary based on factors such as location, service availability, and ongoing promotional offers. For a more comprehensive perspective, you may also compare HIV test prices across major cities in India.

You can book HIV I And II Test in Kolkata through PharmEasy with convenient home sample collection across several localities, including :

• Salt Lake
• New Town
• Rajarhat
• Dum Dum
• Lake Town
• Baguiati
• Park Street
• Ballygunge
• Bhowanipore
• Alipore
• Behala
• Tollygunge
• Jadavpur
• Garia
• Kalighat
• Kasba
• Kankurgachi
• Ruby
• Sealdah
• Shyambazar

You can also check service availability during purchase by entering your pin code.