Don’t wait to test for HIV – Understanding Window Periods

This article, published in the BCMJ, is a succinct summary of current HIV testing and window periods.

Gilbert M, Krajden M. Don’t wait to test for HIV. BCMJ 26(2):2010

New HIV Testing Recommendations

Offer and recommend a routine HIV test to all adults who have not been tested in the past year, under the following conditions:
  • Whenever any other bloodwork is ordered
  • Whenever a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) test or diagnosis occurs (same for Hepatitis C & Tuberculosis)
  • Whenever asked for an HIV test
Patients with an identified risk may benefit from more frequent testing, e.g. every 3-6 months. Continue to routinely order HIV tests with prenatal bloodwork