The result from an HIV test can either be positive or negative.

A positive test result tells you that you have been infected with HIV. Being HIV positive does not mean you have AIDS. By regularly monitoring your health and exploring your treatmentoptions, you can slow the progress of HIV and live a longer, healthier life. You can get support and information about living with HIV. Call your local AIDS Helpline for more information.

If the result is positive, you will be asked if you need help identifying people that might have been at risk of getting HIV from you. You have the right to say that you do not need this help. If youdo want help, public health staff will work with you and your doctor or clinic in order to identify people that may need to be warned that they have been at risk of HIV infection. If you have questions about this, call your local AIDS Helpline.

A negative test result can tell you one of two things:

1. Either you don't have HIV, or
2. You've been infected recently and your body hasn't produced enough HIV antibodies to be measured in a blood test.

A negative result doesn't mean you are immune to HIV. You might consider this a good opportunity to look at what you've been doing and what you can do to reduce your risk of infection.