HIV Test Positive or Reactive: What Should I Do Next?

Contact a healthcare facility

Tell the clinic you have a reactive HIV screening result and need follow-up. Ask where confirmatory testing is performed, whether an appointment is needed and what records to bring. If you are pregnant, tell the team promptly so they can arrange appropriate care.

Bring useful information

Keep the kit leaflet, product name, batch details and a note of when you performed and read the test. A photograph taken within the correct reading interval may help explain what you saw, but it cannot replace the clinic’s confirmation process. Bring earlier reports and your medicine list.

Do not try to vote between home tests

A later negative home test does not safely cancel a reactive result. The next useful step is the confirmatory pathway, not repeated shopping for different brands. Ask the clinician to explain how the follow-up results will be reported and when you should return.

Make space for support

Consider bringing a trusted person if that feels comfortable. Ask for counselling and practical support. If HIV is confirmed, treatment is available and an HIV care team can discuss starting it. You do not need to make long-term decisions based on a screening result alone.

Common questions

Does reactive mean I definitely have HIV?

No. Confirmatory testing is needed to establish the diagnosis.

Should I stop prescribed medicines?

Do not stop or change medicines based on a screening result. Discuss them with your treating clinician.