How can one protect oneself from AIDS?
22. Where to go for HIV testing? To detect HIV antibodies in the blood, a number of different tests have been developed. Two of the most widely used tests are the ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay) and the Western Blot Kit Test. HIV testing services are now available in most countries. There are many Voluntary Counselling and Testing Centres (VCTC). The referral and counselling services are mostly provided by the NGOs. In some places, there are collaboration between the NGOs and the government for referrals and linkages. VCTC services have been extended rapidly in West Bengal during the last few years. Presently, 22 VCTCs including one community based VCTC are functioning in the state. 23. What are the limitations of these tests? One major drawback of antibody tests is the “window” period: the time it takes the body to produce antibodies after infection has begun. The standard tests for HIV do not detect the virus itself, but the antibodies that the body produces in response of
