HIV Antibody 1/2/O (HIV Ab)

Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a blood borne virus that is also present in some bodily fluids. It can be spread by blood-to-blood contact, sexually, through breast milk and from mother to child at birth. There are two types of recognised HIV, 1 and 2. Of type 1, there are groups O and M (Outlier and Major).

Early signs of infection may be any of a variety of different flu-like and other symptoms that may be mistaken for unrelated illnesses. Alternatively, there may be no symptoms at all. Progression of the virus leads to lowering of the body's immunity, to such a level that it can no longer fight off infections or cancers. This stage is called Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

There are treatments for HIV that can significantly improve the mortality rate. Where available, the life expectancy from initial infection can be greater than 20 years. However there remains no cure. The best way to avoid infection is to avoid exposure. Screening can help to identify those need treatment.

ScreenSafe UK is proud to be the exclusive UK supplier of a choice of new and innovative Blood Borne Virus rapid testing cassettes including a point of care device (CE marked) for the detection of HIV Antibody 1/2/O, giving a result in minutes.

A negative result indicates no presence of antibodies to HIV virus.

A non-negative result indicates exposure to HIV and the presence of HIV antibodies. A confirmatory blood sample should be sent to the laboratory.

Other Considerations

Testing for Blood Borne Viruses can create serious implications for those being tested. There is possibly lifestyle, psychological and social challenges ahead. For this reason testers may need to consider:

  1. Confidentiality and testing environment.
  2. Pre and post test advisory discussions.
  3. Pathways for the referral of non-negative donors.
  4. Supporting literature.
  5. A screening protocol.
  6. Support agency contact details.

ScreenSafe UK's team are keen to ensure that you are confident in the use of all our testing devices, and tuition/training is all part of the service. To find out more about ScreenSafe UK Blood Borne Virus testing, then please contact our friendly and professional customer service team on 08450 505590 or via email (enquiries@screensafeuk.co.uk). All enquiries are strictly confidential.

TestRite™ BBV Leaflet