I'm Rajesh and recently I had a brief encounter with a sex worker, but I used two condoms for protection. It happened on the 8th of June 2018, and about 26 days later, I went for an HIV duo 4th generation test, which came back negative with a result of 0.09. Lately, I've developed a cold, cough, and some throat pain that I think could just be due to the weather. Can I trust these test results and get back to my regular routine, or should I be concerned? I'm really anxious about this and could use some guidance.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Shubham Chauhan

General Practitioner

MBBS
4+ Yrs

Consult Now

Hi Rajesh, based on your description, the HIV 4th generation test you took 26 days after exposure is highly reliable and indicates you are negative. Your symptoms are more likely due to weather changes and not related to HIV. You can continue with your regular life, but if you remain anxious, consider retesting at 6 weeks for complete peace of mind.

Dr. Shubham Suggests...

Consult a Infectious Disease specialist

Find a Infectious Disease specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

View all

I'm really worried about a testosterone propionate injection I had on my butt. It's been over two weeks now, and things just seem to be getting worseI keep getting fevers, and there's a lump where the injection was with increasing swelling. Do you think another surgery could help? What should I do? I'm looking for advice on this.

The lump has to be properly examined to determine what it is. Treatment will vary according to the findings. It is best to opt for a consult with a surgeon as soon as possible.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Can I still go to the gym while I'm getting anti-rabies treatment? A dog bit me, and I've finished 2 days of the vaccine, with 2 more to go. Is it okay to continue my workouts and take whey protein during this time? Would love your advice.

Visit your Physician for appropriate management

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm kind of worried about this rat bite I got on my toe a month back. It was a small wound, but it did bleed a bit. I saw a doctor, got a TT injection, and took antibiotics to avoid infection. They also suggested I get the Anti Rabies vaccine, but I haven't gotten it yet. Do you think it's necessary for me to take the Anti Rabies Vaccine at this point?

yes you need to take rabies vaccination

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

HIV AIDS

Understanding HIV: Symptoms in Men and Women

Understand HIV symptoms in men and women, how the virus progresses, ways it spreads, and how treatment with ART and lifestyle changes can help manage it effectively.

Covid

Coronavirus Outbreak Facts: 10 Things You Didn’t Know

Learn 10 evidence-based coronavirus facts to boost COVID-19 awareness. Simple tips on vaccines, masks, testing, ventilation, and treatment.

H1N1 flu swine flu

Guide to How Protect Yourself Swine Flu

Learn effective ways to protect yourself from swine flu (H1N1) with vaccination, hygiene tips, and immune-boosting lifestyle habits.

Covid

10 Essential Ways to Keep Your Home Clean and Coronavirus-Free

Keep your home safe and virus-free with these 10 essential cleaning and disinfecting tips. Learn science-backed strategies to protect your household from coronavirus.

General Medical Consultation

Guide to Hmpv Outbreak In India

Your comprehensive guide to the HMPV outbreak in India. Learn about symptoms, prevention strategies, at-risk populations, and the government's response to this respiratory virus.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.