What does a PRELIMINARY POSITIVE result mean?
A PRELIMINARY POSITIVE result suggests that antibodies to HIV may be present in your blood or oral fluid. If you receive a PRELIMINARY POSITIVE result on the test, you will need to have another test to confirm the result. You will also be encouraged to take precautions to avoid any chance of spreading HIV until your test result is confirmed. If you are found to be infected, you may benefit from special medical care. New treatments can help keep you healthy, even though you are infected with HIV. See a doctor, even if you don’t feel sick. A doctor can help you to live longer. Other tests can tell you how strong your immune system is and what treatments might be best for you. Some people stay healthy for a long time with HIV. Others may become ill more rapidly. Be careful not to pass HIV on to others.