Question 1

I'm really worried after visiting a barber shop because I'm afraid I might have been exposed to infections like HBV, HCV, or HIV. Could you tell me more about when I should get tested? I heard that an antibodies test for HIV can be done after 4 weeks or even up to 12 weeks, but I also read something about a p24 antigen test that can be taken after 4 weeks. How accurate are these tests? I could really use some advice right now.

Accepted Answer

Antibodies test for HIV can be performed after 4 weeks for preliminary results, but for more accurate results, it is recommended to wait for 12 weeks post-exposure. The p24 antigen test can be performed after 4 weeks to detect the HIV virus directly. It is important to follow up with healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Question 2

my relative got an HIV ELISA test before surgery and the report says cut off value is 0.1312 with non-reactive result - can you explain what this means in simple terms? are they HIV negative or is there still a risk?

Accepted Answer

A "non-reactive" result on an HIV ELISA test, especially with a low S/CO ratio like 0.1312, means the test didn't detect any significant signs of HIV infection at the time of the test. In simple terms, this usually means the person is HIV negative, but there's a small chance of a recent infection that the test hasn't yet detected.

Question 3

I'm really worried about typhoid and how it's passed between people. Can it be spread through kissing or other close contact? How likely is it to be transmitted from one person to another this way?

Accepted Answer

Typhoid fever is not considered a sexually transmitted disease. It is typically transmitted through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Salmonella typhi. However, close contact with an infected person can increase the risk of transmission. It is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding sharing utensils, to help prevent the spread of typhoid fever. If you suspect you have been exposed to typhoid fever, antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin or Azithromycin can be prescribed for treatment.

How can we prevent communicable disease?

Handle & Prepare Food Safely as food can carry germs, Wash Hands Often, Clean & Disinfect Commonly Used Surfaces, Cough and Sneeze into a Tissue or Your Sleeve, Don't Share Personal Items, take appropriate vaccines, Avoid Touching Wild Animals and stay home when sick.

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

my relative got an HIV ELISA test before surgery and the report says cut off value is 0.1312 with non-reactive result - can you explain what this means in simple terms? are they HIV negative or is there still a risk?

I'm really worried about typhoid and how it's passed between people. Can it be spread through kissing or other close contact? How likely is it to be transmitted from one person to another this way?

Health Articles for you

Cold vs. Flu

What Leads To Signs Of Swine Flu And Treatment

Nipah Virus: A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Spread, and Safety

Diphtheria Overview: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What Leads To Signs Of Lymphatic Filariasis Disease