Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2004. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date. My results came back as HIV 1+2, 3gen, H Reactive, what does that mean? How long do I have to live? Do I qualify for antiviral drugs? I have no medical aid and a very small income and I live in South Africa.
Please help me. Thanks.
Dear C,
I want you to confirm this with your local health care provider, as there can be some differences in how HIV tests are worded from country to country, but it does look as if you have tested positive. Again, you need to confirm this with an HIV trained health provider from your area.
There is no way to give any idea of your prognosis, should you find the positive test confirmed. HIV infection typically has a course of many years. You will need to get an idea of your over-all health and certain lab tests to get even the slightest idea, but the thing to keep your eye on is how much someone who is HIV positive can do for their health.
It is my understanding that HIV medications are available in South Africa, and at much lower rates than in the US. The decision to go on medications depends on some lab tests and your health. Many people go years without needing medications. Only with a good check up can the decision be made.
The medications work wonders. A person who has them may live an essentially normal life span.
Please don't panic yet! Get the test confirmed, and then make decisions- decisions about how to lead a full, healthy life.
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