Everything You Should Know About HIV Testing in Dubai

Published on: 14th September 2024
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Alina Gabdulbarova

According to UNICEF, The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is one of only two regions in the world with rising numbers of people acquiring HIV. The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) estimates that about 20,000 people acquired HIV in the MENA region in 2022, a 54 percent increase since 2010.

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has a presence around the globe. Since the virus attacks the immune cells by causing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, taking away the body’s ability to fight off infections, it is vital to get HIV testing early and prevent further complications. In this blog, we will talk about HIV infection and screening in Dubai, along with other details.

HIV Virus Transmission, Causes, and Symptoms to Know

If infected, you may fall sick often as the HIV virus destroys the CD-4 immune cells responsible for fighting infection. The condition may make you susceptible to chronic diseases and cancers, gradually causing a decline in the immune system and the beginning of AIDS.

HIV Virus Transmission

HIV spreads between humans through bodily fluids such as rectal fluids, blood, breast milk, vaginal fluids, pre-seminal fluid, and semen. There is no transmission through urine, sweat, saliva, touching objects touched by the infected person, pets, mosquitoes, or intimate contact with anyone having a stably undetectable viral load. You can always get an HIV test at home if you suspect having the condition.

HIV Virus Causes

The virus can spread to another individual if the bodily fluids come in contact with the bloodstream, damaged tissue like open wounds, or mucous membranes (inside of the vagina, rectum, penile organ, mouth, etc.). Risk behaviors are unprotected intercourse, sharing needles, reusing needles during tattooing, blood transfusion, breastfeeding, or through pregnancy. You can sign up for an HIV test in Dubai if you engage in any risk behaviors, and suspect an infection.

HIV Virus Symptoms

Some of the common HIV symptoms are night sweats, chills, fever, fatigue, cough and cold, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, hypertension, diarrhea, yeast infections, muscle and body aches, swollen lymph glands, heart problems, mouth ulcers, neuropathy, and others.

HIV Testing Types and Where to Get It Done?

With the chances of getting HIV in Dubai growing every day among people who partake in risky behaviors leading to this condition, it is essential to get the virus test done. Early detection means treatment on time, improving the quality of life, and negating the onset of AIDS. Here are the types of diagnosis for HIV in the UAE:

Types of Tests for HIV in Dubai

Blood Tests

The virus contains antigens that elicit a response from the immune system, whereas antibodies are proteins to combat infections, and are produced by the body. You can get an HIV blood test to detect it at home or laboratory using a vein draw or finger prick method.

A rapid HIV test tells if you have HIV antibodies within 15 minutes.
You can also get an antigen test as early as 10 days after the HIV virus attack.
There is an HIV detection test for antibodies after 28 days of exposure as well.

Lab Tests

To confirm the HIV viral load or genetic material of the HIV virus in your blood, choose the RNA or DNA test as it gives the result as early as 9 days from the infection. Lab tests are more accurate in contrast to other tests. They are also helpful to plan for HIV treatment better.

Oral Tests

With rising cases of AIDS in Dubai, oral tests have become favorable as they identify HIV antibodies through saliva screening. Take a swab of gums using the test kit and put it in the provided solution. You will receive the result in just 20 minutes.

Where to Get HIV Testing in Dubai?

There are several private clinics and hospitals for diagnosis of HIV in Dubai and the UAE. You can also get tested at recognized government healthcare facilities for the same. Moreover, many community and non-profit organizations conduct an HIV detection test at minimal or no cost.

Be assured of complete confidentiality while getting a test for AIDS in Dubai, as most healthcare units respect your privacy.
As the chances of getting HIV in Dubai are increasing, there is also strong legal protection regarding privacy for residents.
Most of the time, a confirmatory HIV test in Dubai is done if a person tests positive for the virus. The results need to be communicated to concerned authorities, wherever necessary.

What to Expect During an HIV Detection Test?

Before you get an HIV test at home, the healthcare provider may offer pre-test counseling over a telephone call or face-to-face consultation, to talk about your feelings, emotions, etc.
The healthcare professional will run you through the HIV detection test protocols, no matter whether you opt for the test at home or clinic.
Expect the lab person to wear protective gear adhering to proper sanitation and hygiene methods while conducting an HIV blood test, DNA test, etc.
After the result of the HIV test in Dubai is out, the report will be handed to you personally at your address, through digital communication details you shared and consented to, or you may choose to visit the facility to collect the report.
Post-counseling to manage HIV in the UAE could be provided by the facility, along with consultation for treatment options.

HIV Virus Test Results Interpretations

If the result for your HIV test in Dubai is negative, either you do not carry the infection, or your body has not developed a sufficient viral load and antibodies for detection.
Pregnant women, healthcare workers, or those with exposure to risk behaviors as discussed above, especially should get tested for HIV and AIDS in Dubai and the UAE.
If a rapid HIV test gives a negative result, then go for a retest after 10-30 days of infection suspicion. An HIV blood test can give a proper indication of the virus attack.
If you test HIV positive, then consult your doctor soon for counseling, treatment, and medications, along with tips to alter your lifestyle, and diet for healthy living.

HIV Treatment Options and Medications

There is no cure for HIV infection. However, antiretroviral therapy medicines (ART) reduce the viral load in your blood.
Your doctor may prescribe Nucleoside or nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) to control HIV and its complications.
Integrase inhibitors, Protease inhibitors (PIs), and entry or fusion inhibitors (restrict impact on the CD4 T cells), are among the other HIV medicines.

STD/HIV Testing by First Response Healthcare

Understanding your HIV status is an important aspect of maintaining your health. If you’re experiencing any health concerns or need guidance on where to get tested, First Response Healthcare STD Testing at home service can assist you. Our experienced doctors and nurses are available for consultations to help you navigate your healthcare needs and can visit you in the comfort and privacy of your home to get the tests done. Contact us today to schedule a convenient appointment or to get more information on how you can use our HIV testing service.

If you’re feeling unwell, have a busy schedule, or are dealing with unfavorable weather, a teleconsultation can be a convenient option. You can receive the care you need, including advice on HIV testing and other health concerns, all from the comfort of your home.

To book an appointment with our doctors who are available 24 hours in Dubai, you can call us at 0505050387 or 800DIALDOC. You can also make an appointment by visiting our website or messaging us on WhatsApp.

Conclusion: Early Tests for HIV in Dubai Saves More Lives

We encourage you to get HIV detection done at the earliest if you suspect the infection. Being aware will help prevent taking steps to avoid transmission, and observe practices that will improve the quality of your life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. How Do I Prepare for an HIV Test?

Get an appointment for an HIV test at home or clinic, and know all the essentials like documents you have to carry, the test fee, etc. Ask for counseling, if you need it before and after the test.

Q. Can I Stay With an HIV Positive Person?

Yes, you can stay with an HIV-positive person without getting infected. Follow the prevention methods as advised by your healthcare provider to avoid transmission of the HIV virus to you.

Q. What Should I Avoid Before an HIV Test?

Avoid engaging in any risk behaviors discussed in the blog before an HIV test in Dubai, to avert the chance of an infection. Also, do not panic. You will receive the necessary support and guidance from your doctor.

References and Citations:

UNICEF: Ending AIDS among young people