Everyone needs to get tested for HIV at least once a year. All sexually active people, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should be tested at least once a year, but three times is recommended.

There are lots of one-stop-shop HIV and STI testing facilities across Nigeria. Here. you can get tested safely and your privacy will be maintained.

PrEP is short for pre-exposure prophylaxis. When one partner has HIV and the other does not, PrEP is given to the HIV-negative partner to minimize the risk of infection. PrEP is given before exposure to HIV through sexual activity. The partner who is HIV-negative has the responsibility to seek medical help and advice on using PrEP so that they are well informed.

As long as there’s no longer exposure risk to HIV, you don’t need to take PrEP. You may stop using PrEP when you are no longer in a sexual relationship with an HIV-positive partner. However, continue to go for HIV testing every year and use condoms.

For PrEP medication to be effective, PrEP must be used for 28 days before HIV exposure. For the first 28 days after starting PrEP, make sure  you are having safe sex with a condom or no sex at all. 

An HIV self-test is a kit that allows you to test yourself privately for HIV. It may be helpful if you find it difficult to access testing in a health facility.

If you get a positive diagnosis after a HIV self-test, go to a clinic or testing facility for further testing. If further testing confirms a positive result, the health provider will immediately connect you to treatment, care, counseling and support. It is possible to lead a long and healthy life with HIV.  Sooner is better. Knowing your HIV status gives you the power to stay healthy.

Having sex without a condom puts you at risk for catching an STI or getting infected with HIV. It is best always to use a condom and know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partner.

When left untreated, STIs can increase your risk of acquiring another STI, including HIV.

HIV and some STIs don’t come with symptoms right away. In fact, it’s possible to have an STI or be infected with HIV for a long time without seeing any symptoms, but you can still pass it on to others. That’s why you and your partner need to go for HIV and STI testing.

Today, people living with HIV can lead full, healthy lives. Many people living with HIV work, have relationships, start families, and do everything they dream of doing. Medications can reduce the virus to undetectable levels, meaning it can’t be transmitted to others and won’t harm your health. Getting tested and starting treatment if necessary can change the course of your health and your life.