HIV prevention has evolved significantly over the years. Today, there are several effective ways to reduce your risk of HIV and take control of your health. Whether you’re sexually active, in a relationship, or simply looking for reliable information, understanding your prevention options can help you make informed decisions. HIV can be prevented, and with the right knowledge and tools, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your future.¹
Why testing matters
Knowing your HIV status is one of the most important things you can do for your health. HIV testing is the gateway to both prevention and treatment. If you test negative, you can access prevention services such as PrEP, condoms, and risk-reduction counselling. If you test positive, early treatment can help you live a long, healthy life and prevent transmission to others.²
Many people with HIV experience no symptoms for years, making testing the only way to know your status with certainty. Regular testing empowers you to make informed healthcare decisions and helps reduce the spread of HIV within communities.²
Know your status. Book an HIV test today and take the first step towards protecting your health.
HIV self-testing
HIV self-testing offers a convenient and private way to check your HIV status. You can use self-test kits at home or anywhere you feel comfortable. Results are usually available within minutes, allowing individuals to take greater ownership of their health.³
While self-testing is highly beneficial, it is important to remember that a reactive (positive) self-test result is not considered a final diagnosis. A healthcare professional will need to perform a confirmatory HIV test before treatment can begin.³
Visit your pharmacy or healthcare provider to learn more about HIV self-testing options available to you.
What happens after a positive result?
Receiving a positive HIV result can feel overwhelming, but support and effective treatment are available. A positive screening result must be confirmed by a healthcare professional. Once confirmed, healthcare providers will guide you through counselling, treatment options, and ongoing support.³
Modern antiretroviral treatment (ART) helps people living with HIV live long and healthy lives. Starting treatment as soon as possible may reduce the amount of HIV in the body to an undetectable level. When HIV remains undetectable, it cannot be sexually transmitted to partners, a concept known as Undetectable = Untransmutable (U=U).⁴˒⁵
If you’ve tested positive, speak to a healthcare professional and start your treatment journey as early as possible.
What happens after a negative result?
A negative HIV test result means HIV was not detected at the time of testing. However, if you have had a recent potential exposure, HIV may not yet be detectable because of the test’s window period. Your healthcare provider may recommend another test later.²
A negative result is an opportunity to explore HIV prevention options and develop a prevention plan that works for your lifestyle.²
Stay negative by staying informed. Speak to a healthcare provider about prevention tools available to you.
How often should i test?
The frequency of HIV testing depends on your individual circumstances and level of risk. For many sexually active individuals, annual testing is recommended. People with ongoing HIV exposure risks may benefit from testing every three to six months, particularly those using PrEP or with multiple sexual partners.³
Make HIV testing part of your routine healthcare. Create a testing schedule that works for you.
HIV prevention basics
There is no single prevention method that works for everyone. HIV prevention is most effective when different strategies are combined. These may include:
- Consistent and correct condom use
- Taking PrEP if appropriate
- Regular HIV testing
- Open communication with sexual partners
- Prompt treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Accessing HIV treatment if diagnosed with HIV¹⁻⁵
Using multiple prevention methods can provide greater protection and peace of mind.
Build your prevention plan. Talk to a healthcare professional about the options best suited to your needs.
What is PrEP?
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is medicine used by HIV-negative individuals to prevent HIV infection. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective and can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV through sex by approximately 99%.⁶
PrEP is available in multiple forms, including daily oral medication and long-acting injectable options in some settings. It is intended for people who may be at increased risk of HIV exposure and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.⁶˒⁷
Ask your healthcare provider whether PrEP could be part of your HIV prevention strategy.
Condom use
Condoms remain one of the most accessible and effective HIV prevention tools available today. When used correctly and consistently, condoms help reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).¹
Condoms can be used alone or combined with other prevention options, such as PrEP, for additional protection. Even when other HIV prevention methods are used, condoms continue to play an important role in protecting against STIs and unintended pregnancy.⁴
Protect yourself and your partners. Keep condoms available and use them correctly every time.
Understanding your risk
Everyone’s HIV risk is different. Factors such as condom use, partner status, sexual practices, STI history, and access to healthcare can influence HIV exposure risk. Understanding your personal circumstances can help you choose the most effective prevention tools.¹
A healthcare professional can help you assess your risk and determine whether options such as PrEP, more frequent testing, or other prevention methods may be suitable for you.³
Take a risk assessment today and discover which prevention options may be right for you.
Take control of your health
You have options when it comes to HIV prevention. Getting tested, using condoms, considering PrEP, and staying informed can all help reduce your risk of HIV. Prevention is not one-size-fits-all. The best approach is one that works for your life, your relationships, and your health needs.
Ready to take the next step?
Speak to a healthcare professional, get tested, and explore the prevention options available to you today.
References
¹ World Health Organization (WHO). HIV and AIDS Fact Sheet, 2026. [who.int], [who.int]
² World Health Organization (WHO). HIV Testing and Prevention Guidance. [who.int], [reference….dscape.com]
³ WHO HIV Testing, Prevention and Care Guideline Summary. [reference….dscape.com]
⁴ UNAIDS. Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U), 2024. [who.int], [cdc.gov], [unaids.org]
⁵ CDC. Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U), 2024. [who.int], [unaids.org], [cdc.gov]
⁶ CDC. Talk PrEP Together, 2025. [cdc.gov], [hiv.gov]
⁷ HIV.gov. CDC Recommends New Injectable HIV PrEP, 2025. [who.int] [who.int], [reference….dscape.com][reference….dscape.com] [unaids.org], [unaids.org] [cdc.gov] [cdc.gov] [hiv.gov]
