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Home / Answered Questions / I had a lot of tests during my window period. I had 3 blood draws and 3 rapid tests. I did a rapid HIV test at 12 weeks. All were done at community health centres and STI clinics and my results were negative every time. Do I need further testing? Especially I want to know if I could get any type of infection when my blood is drawn or during a finger prick with the rapid test. Is there any slim chance of infection? I am scared. PLz help.

I had a lot of tests during my window period. I had 3 blood draws and 3 rapid tests. I did a rapid HIV test at 12 weeks. All were done at community health centres and STI clinics and my results were negative every time. Do I need further testing? Especially I want to know if I could get any type of infection when my blood is drawn or during a finger prick with the rapid test. Is there any slim chance of infection? I am scared. PLz help.

Hi

Given that you had a negative rapid HIV test at 12 weeks, there is no need for any further testing.

If you want to read more about window periods for STI/HIV you can check out our chart “STI’s At A Glance”.

As for your chances of getting an infection during the blood draw or finger prick, that should never happen in Canada. Healthcare providers follow strict regulations and needles are used one time only. After they are used one time, they are disposed of in a special container.

In addition, the lancet used for the rapid test is designed in such a way that it can only be used once.

Please leave a comment to let us know if this answers your question or if you need more information.

Health Nurse

 

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