HIV Testing Al Ain

Better2Know is the largest provider of private sexual health testing services in the Middle East. We have world class clinics across the UAE, offering HIV testing in Al Ain and beyond. Our Khalifa Bin Zayed Street clinic is open 14 hours a day, 6 days a week, offering tests and screens for a variety of STIs, including HIV.

What is HIV?

HIV is a viral infection that stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The infection has two types, HIV-1 and HIV-2, both of which reduce the number of CD4 cells that defend us from infections and diseases. If left untreated, an HIV infection can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, otherwise known as AIDS. With AIDS, the immune system begins to fail, resulting in serious and potentially life-threatening infections that the body would ordinarily be able to combat naturally.

Signs, Symptoms & Sources of Infection

HIV is often acquired through unprotected sex with an infected person, though there are several other ways in which the virus can be transmitted. HIV can be passed on by sharing needles or syringes (usually for recreational drug use) with someone who has the infection and, though it is rare, the virus can also be spread through transfusions of infected blood.

HIV is transmittable when the infected sexual secretions of one partner meet the genital, oral, or rectal mucous membranes of another, so it is possible to catch the infection through the giving and receiving of anal and/or oral sex. The body fluids that can transfer HIV include: blood, seminal fluid, vaginal fluid, rectal mucous, breast milk and pre-ejaculate.

After the initial onset of symptoms, which can appear within six weeks of infection, many people can be symptomless for years. Common symptoms of HIV infection include, but are not limited to, skin rashes, chronic diarrhoea, unintentional weight loss, sweating and night sweats, unusual tiredness, swollen lymph glands in the neck, groin or armpit, or nausea and loss of appetite.

DID YOU KNOW? … Around 36.7 million people worldwide are HIV Positive, with over 14 million unaware of their status.

HIV Testing with Better2Know

Better2Know’s HIV tests require a simple blood sample from your arm, or from a pin prick on your finger. Our 4^th Generation test is suitable 28 days after an incident of concern, and detects antibodies to both types of HIV along with the P24 antigen.

Alternatively, our Early Detection Screen can test you for HIV just 10 days after potential exposure to the virus. The Early Detection Screen tests for Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C, as well as the HIV virus itself. If you need to speak to a doctor before getting tested, Better2Know can make the appropriate arrangements with an experienced team of doctors across Al Ain and the UAE.

HIV in Al Ain

It is extremely important to know your HIV status as it can protect both your own health and that of any current or future partners. The legislation surrounding HIV in Al Ain can be complex, so it is always Better2Know the relevant laws before you travel. Our HIV testing follows national guidelines and, as per UAE regulations, you may be asked to provide I.D. at your clinic appointment.

So, if you think you may have been exposed to HIV, stay safe and get yourself tested. Our sexual health advisors are available by phone 24/7 or you can arrange an appointment at our Al Ain clinic online.

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