Why Test?
HIV testing, or VCT (Voluntary Counselling and Testing), is something we often hear and read about. The reactions you hear from people about VCT differ widely.
Some of the reactions are:
* Some people say it has nothing to do with them. As they are not at risk, they do not need testing.
* Some people say that it is no use anyway. They don't want to know their status, as they cannot do anything about it if they are positive. If they are negative, nothing changes anyway.
* Some say they do not want to know their status. Being HIV+ means you will die, and they do not want to know that.
* Some might feel that they can't make decisions about when and with whom they have sex in any case, so why test if you cannot protect yourself.
* Some people even believe that you can be infected through the testing procedure, that it is just another trick to infect some group deliberately.
How should we look at all these different viewpoints? Not one of these statements are scientifically accurate, or the most healthy way to look at the matter.
HIV and AIDS affect us all. If you are sexually active, your partner may place you at risk. This may also happen if you are faithful. More than 70% of HIV+ women in Africa are in a relationship where they are faithful to one partner. You may even be at risk through contact with blood of a HIV+ person. If you are not at risk, being tested may help others. If testing becomes routine and commonplace, it will help break down the stigma of HIV.
If you are HIV positive, practising safe sex will protect present and future partners from HIV. If you are pregnant and HIV positive, you can take measures that may help protect your unborn baby from being infected. If you are HIV negative, you can protect yourself and stay that way.
Although the HI-virus can not be destroyed, being HIV positive is not the end of your life. By living a healthy lifestyle you can strengthen your immune system. This includes diet, exercise, good sleeping patterns, stress management, getting emotional support and avoiding other infections. If your immune system becomes weaker, antiretroviral medication is available to suppress the virus. You may also qualify for certain government grants to help you financially. If treatment is unsuccessful, knowing this may give you and your family the opportunity to make important arrangements about your children and your belongings.
Some persons (especially women) do not have the power to say no to husbands or partners, or may even be raped. In this situation, knowing your status means that you can do everything possible to keep yourself healthy, and to protect others.
We do not like to think about unpleasant things such as HIV and getting ill, maybe even dying. If you live in an ethical and responsible manner, it is your responsibility to think about, and make a decision about, testing for HIV.
Written for The Communicator, Staff Newsletter of the Trans 50 organisation, by Lyn van Rooyen on 20/04/2005