Everything You Should Know About HIV and Available Test Options in Dubai

‍HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a form of STD (sexually transmitted disease) in which the infection is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. Some STDs show immediate symptoms, whereas HIV develops silently in the human body. It is important to know how HIV affects the human body and how it can lead to death. If left untreated, it can progress to AIDS, which is an incurable disease.

‍What is HIV?

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and weakens the body’s defense response against diseases. It specifically targets CD4 cells, a type of white blood cells that are responsible for fighting infections. HIV destroys them over time. If it is left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the advanced stage of the disease. In this the body becomes highly vulnerable to infections and leads to cancers. AIDS has no cure, early detection of HIV through proper testing and timely treatment can enable individuals to live a healthy and long life.

‍What are the Types of HIV?‍

There are mainly two types of HIV. Both are slightly different but capable of causing AIDS and death.‍

1. HIV-1‍

This is the most common type of HIV that spreads across the globe as well as in Dubai. An infected person carries the virus strains in their body and can transmit it to others through various means. This type spreads faster and more aggressively. Also, HIV-1 type has further subgroups (clades), group-M is the most common worldwide, while group (N,O,P) are rare ones.‍

2. HIV-2‍

HIV-2 is less common and not as easily transmitted as compared to HIV-1.  This type is common in African regions and transfers through immigrants.  The progression of HIV-2 is a bit slower and people are prone to late AIDS. It is equally important to treat it in time; otherwise, the immune system may fail, leaving the body vulnerable even to minor illnesses.

‍How is HIV Transmitted to the Body?‍

HIV transfers through body fluids like blood, saliva, semen, vaginal fluid, and pre-seminal fluid. The most common causes are sexual activities with a carrier body. Everyday interactions such as touching, sharing objects, hugging, or exposure to sweat and urine do not spread the virus.
If you are living around a person who has symptoms of HIV, you should also get tested as early as possible. This service can be availed confidentially through Vestacare which offers HIV testing at home in Dubai with complete privacy.

‍What are HIV Symptoms?‍

The symptoms of HIV may vary from person to person. Some people experience only mild, general symptoms, while others may not notice any signs until the infection reaches an advanced stage. The initial symptoms often include fatigue, fever, and flu-like illness, commonly referred to as Acute Retroviral Syndrome (ARS).
If HIV is not diagnosed early, the symptoms may gradually progress to rapid weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and persistent fever. Additionally, any other illness contracted during this stage may last longer and worsen due to the weakened immune system.

‍Available Options for HIV Testing In Dubai‍

There are various services for HIV tests in Dubai that ensure confidentiality, accuracy, and convenience.‍

Home-Based HIV Rapid Test in Dubai‍

‍1. Blood Samples‍

This is an easy and convenient option used for early screening. It can be done through a finger prick method or by taking blood from a vein. The result of this test is available within 20 to 30 minutes. This test is commonly used for initial screening and provides results quickly, often with just a small blood sample or oral swab. 

However, while rapid tests are reliable for early detection, they may still need confirmation with a standard laboratory test. This rapid HIV test can tell you whether you carry HIV antibodies or not. An antigen test is an earlier option for detection, as it can identify the virus about 10 days after infection.

‍2. Oral HIV Tests‍

With the increasing demand for discreet HIV testing in Dubai, oral fluid tests are highly preferred. In this method, a sample is collected from saliva instead of blood and placed into a special solution to screen for HIV antibodies. Results can be obtained within 20 minutes. It is a painless and simple test for HIV screening.

‍Laboratory-Based HIV Test in Dubai‍

There are various laboratories that are designated for HIV detection tests in Dubai. Laboratory-based methods provide highly reliable results, using antigen/antibody combination tests along with PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). These tests can detect HIV infection earlier than standard rapid tests and are generally used for confirmation. 

To measure the viral load or identify the genetic material (RNA or DNA) of HIV in the blood, RNA/DNA tests are available at Vesat Care labs. These tests can detect infection as early as 9 days after exposure and also assist doctors in planning a more effective HIV treatment strategy.

Difference Between Standard Tests and Rapid Tests ‍

The main difference lies in speed and accuracy. Rapid tests provide results within minutes and are suitable for initial screening. Standard laboratory tests, on the other hand, take a bit longer to deliver results but are far more accurate and detailed. They are usually the standard option for confirming HIV and for ongoing monitoring.‍

Where to Get Reliable HIV Testing Services in Dubai?

There are many lab testing services in Dubai. It is important to choose your service wisely. A trusted HIV testing service not only gives you confidence for accurate results but also guarantees that your sensitive health information remains secure. There are Dubai HIV screening centers that provide confidentiality and safety. The staff ensure that the syringe for the blood sample is unpacked in front of your eyes. 

HIV or AIDS in Dubai is spreading rapidly due to party culture and sexual activities. People prefer to hide their identities while collecting reports or giving samples for tests. Vesta Care is a trustworthy platform which offers Private HIV Test in Dubai, Ensuring patient privacy is the top priority of their staff.|
Globally, about one in ten individuals live with HIV infection and are not aware about their condition. This highlights the importance of regular testing, particularly for those who engage in unprotected sexual activity with multiple partners, use intravenous drugs, or are exposed to other high-risk circumstances.‍

Benefits of Home HIV Tests in Dubai

• Privacy and Confidentiality: Home tests are a convenient way to check HIV status discreetly without visiting a clinic. They help protect identity and reduce the stigma often associated with HIV/AIDS.
• Rapid Results: You can get the results within 30 minutes, and the test is usually performed by DHA-certified health professionals.
• Early Detection:  Home tests enable people to detect HIV as early as possible. This is important because early HIV check-up in Dubai can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
• Hygiene Measures: Home HIV test services in Dubai are among the most preferred options by residents. At home, they can be assured that the collection device or syringe is sealed and properly discarded after use. It is also important to ensure that the sample collector wears gloves and sanitizes before handling the equipment.
• Follow-Ups: DHA-licensed medical professionals provide home HIV testing services while following hospital guidelines. Individuals who test positive can immediately consult doctors for confirmatory laboratory tests and treatment planning

Timely intervention with HIV tests can protect the health of your loved ones. The window period is important for HIV victims. It is the time frame between potential exposure and test results that confirm the virus in the body. If you have any doubt of being infected, book a confidential HIV test in Dubai with Vesta Care. All your information and identity will be kept private, and results will be delivered with complete secrecy.

Qualified and experienced doctors and nurses are available to visit you in the comfort of your home to get the tests done. The service is available 24/7. Book your appointment now or contact us to get more information on how you can use our HIV Rapid Test service in Dubai.‍

FAQs

What are the Early Signs of HIV?
HIV often develops silently. Within the first 2 to 5 weeks after exposure, a person may experience flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, and light fever.
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When Should I get Tested for HIV?
You should get tested if you have had unprotected sex or any contact with another person’s blood. It’s important to consider testing if you are constantly experiencing flu and fever that is not improving with time.
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What Should I do If my HIV Test is Positive?
Once your HIV diagnosis is confirmed, you should start antiretroviral therapy (ART) without delay. This treatment helps protect your immune system and significantly slows the progression of HIV to AIDS.
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How is HIV Treated?
HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART) along with antibiotics. This cannot be completely cured, ART therapy prevents further damage to the immune system, creates antibodies and slow down the progression towards AIDS.

‍What is the Difference Between HIV and AIDS?‍

HIV is a virus that enters into the body through fluid contact with infected body. Whereas, AIDS is an advanced stage of HIV in which immune system stops its defense mechanism and any infection can lead to cancer. The body gets severely damaged and prone to any bacteria. Painful red or purple patches also appear on the skin.