What are the symptoms of HIV infection?

Some people develop a short, flu-like illness after infection, while others notice no symptoms. Without effective treatment, later illness can involve ongoing fatigue, night sweats, frequent infections or unintentional weight loss. These features are not specific to HIV and may occur with conditions such as Tuberculosis or other infections. The direction is therefore from HIV infection to possible symptoms; a symptom does not show that HIV is the cause.

Arrange an HIV Test if you have had a possible exposure or symptoms that concern you. STI Screening can check for other infections at the same visit. Tell the clinician when the exposure occurred because the timing affects which tests are useful and whether repeat testing is needed. Until you receive advice, use barriers during sex and do not share needles or injecting equipment.

Seek prompt medical attention for severe weakness, persistent fever, breathing difficulty, confusion, dehydration, rapidly worsening illness or a serious infection. If a possible exposure was recent, seek medical advice urgently because time-sensitive prevention may be considered. Do not wait for symptoms before asking about testing after a significant exposure.

Ask which HIV test is suitable, when it can give a reliable result, whether repeat testing is needed, which other STI tests are appropriate, and how confidentiality and follow-up will work.