If you have just been diagnosed with HIV, you may be feeling upset, shocked, or angry. You might be having trouble taking all the information in that you have been told. Don’t worry though we are here to help.
I have just been diagnosed with HIV, what do I need know?
- A person living with HIV who is taking effective treatment and has an undetectable viral load, they cannot pass on HIV, it can take up to six months to become undetectable.
- It is recommended that anyone diagnosed with HIV can start treatment straight away regardless of the CD4 Count.
- Treatment can be as simple as taking one or two tablets a day.
- Successfully taking HIV treatment means that you can expect to live as long as anyone else.
- Once your treatment has begun to work properly, you may only have to see a Doctor/Nurse once or twice a year.
- Parents who are HIV positive can have HIV negative children.
Will I get good medical care?
It’s important to go to a specialist HIV service to access medical care.
You’ll be advised to start treatment straight away in line with the British HIV Association (BHIVA) guidelines.
These recommend that anyone with HIV who is ready to commit to treatment should start regardless of their CD4 count.
Most people who become ill from HIV are either diagnosed after they have become ill, or they have not been using treatment.
If you don’t have an HIV doctor yet, call THT Direct on 0808 802 1221 and they'll put you in touch with one.
You can also read about your healthcare options in the UK and the HIV treatment that is free for all people living with HIV in the UK.
