Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?

HIV is the virus; AIDS is the advanced stage of severe immune damage. Having HIV does not mean you have AIDS — with ongoing treatment, many people never progress to it.

How is HIV transmitted?

HIV passes through blood, semen, vaginal and rectal fluids, and breast milk. The most common routes are condomless sex and sharing injecting equipment.

How is HIV NOT transmitted?

HIV is not spread by hugging, shaking hands, kissing, sharing toilets or dishes, coughing, sweat, tears or mosquito bites. Everyday contact is safe.

What symptoms might suggest HIV?

Some people get flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, rash or swollen glands about 2–4 weeks after exposure, but many have none. Symptoms alone cannot confirm HIV — only a test can.

Can you live a normal life with HIV?

Yes. People on consistent treatment stay healthy with a near-normal life expectancy, and can work, study, exercise and have relationships like anyone else.

How long after exposure can I test?

It depends on the test. NAT is earliest at about 10–14 days; a 4th-generation antigen/antibody test at 2–4 weeks; antibody self-tests can take up to about 3 months.

Where can I get an HIV test?

At public and private hospitals, specialist clinics, community organisations, or with a home kit. Many services are free and anonymous.

Is HIV testing free?

Thai nationals can test for HIV free twice a year at hospitals under universal coverage, and many community organisations test free.

Does testing hurt? How long does it take?

Just a few minutes — a fingertip blood sample or small swab. A rapid test gives a preliminary result in about 20 minutes.

Are HIV self-tests reliable?

They are reliable when used correctly, but detect later than lab tests. If positive or after a recent risk, always confirm at a health facility.

What if my result is reactive (positive)?

A reactive screening result must be confirmed first. A positive result is not the end — it is the start of treatment that lets you live normally, and a clinician starts antiretrovirals promptly.

I tested negative but my risk was recent — can I trust it?

If you tested before the window period ended, a negative result may not be final — retest afterwards. If the exposure was within 72 hours, ask about PEP right away.

What is PrEP?

PrEP is medicine taken before exposure to prevent HIV in advance — up to 99% effective when taken consistently, ideal for people with ongoing risk.

What is the difference between PrEP and PEP?

PrEP is taken before exposure to prevent HIV in advance; PEP is emergency medicine after a possible exposure — start within 72 hours and take for 28 days.

Within how many hours must PEP start?

PEP only works if started within 72 hours of exposure — the sooner the better. After 72 hours it is no longer effective.

Where can I get PrEP, and is it free?

PrEP is available at specialist clinics, hospitals and community organisations. Free PrEP is available in Thailand under universal coverage for people at risk.

Does PrEP have side effects?

Some people notice nausea, headache or stomach upset in the first few weeks, which usually settles as the body adjusts. Clinicians monitor kidney function periodically.

Is using condoms alone enough?

Condoms protect well against HIV and other STIs when used correctly every time. For high or ongoing risk, combining them with PrEP adds protection.

What is on-demand PrEP?

On-demand PrEP (2-1-1) means 2 pills 2–24 hours before sex, then 1 pill at 24 hours and 1 at 48 hours. It suits some people who can plan ahead — talk to a clinician first.

What is U=U?

U=U means Undetectable = Untransmittable. When someone on treatment has an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass HIV on sexually.

Can HIV be cured?

There is no cure yet, but antiretrovirals control the virus to undetectable levels — keeping people healthy, long-lived, and non-infectious (U=U).

Do I have to take treatment for life?

Yes — taking it every day is the key to control. Stopping on your own lets the virus rebound and can cause resistance, so consistency matters.

Does antiretroviral treatment have side effects?

Modern regimens have few side effects; some people notice mild effects early that usually pass. If bothersome, a clinician can adjust the regimen.

Can people with HIV have children safely?

Yes. A pregnant woman who is undetectable on treatment can cut transmission to her baby to under 1%. Early antenatal care and medical support are key.

Does HIV treatment cost money in Thailand?

HIV care including antiretrovirals is covered under universal coverage, social security and civil-servant schemes. Check your entitlements with the facility.

What are the common STIs?

Common ones include syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, herpes, HPV and hepatitis. Many are curable, and some are vaccine-preventable.

Do other STIs raise the risk of HIV?

Yes — having another STI increases the risk of getting and passing on HIV, so testing and treating STIs is part of overall sexual-health care.

Are syphilis and gonorrhoea curable?

Yes, both are curable with antibiotics when diagnosed and treated early. Treat partners together to prevent reinfection, and follow up after treatment.

Is my test information confidential?

Health data is protected by law and staff are bound by confidentiality. Many sites also offer anonymous testing.

I just had a possible exposure — what should I do first?

If it is within 72 hours and you are worried, seek PEP at an emergency department or clinic immediately. Then plan testing per the window period, and consider PrEP if risk is ongoing.