HIV viral load
Explanation
An HIV viral load test measures genetic material from HIV in the blood. It is mainly used to follow an established HIV infection and check how well treatment is controlling the virus. It is different from a test that looks for HIV antibodies, proteins the immune system makes in response to HIV.
Does undetectable mean cured?
No. It means the amount in the blood is below what that test can detect. In someone receiving HIV treatment, this is a treatment goal, but HIV remains in the body. Continue treatment as prescribed.
What does it mean for transmission?
People who take treatment and maintain an undetectable viral load do not transmit HIV through sex. This is known as U=U, meaning undetectable equals untransmittable. Regular monitoring helps confirm that the viral load stays undetectable.
What if this was a test after a possible exposure?
That is a different situation from monitoring known HIV. No HIV test detects infection immediately after exposure. The type of test, timing and any HIV medicines matter when deciding whether further testing is needed. An isolated result should not be used to make assumptions about someone’s diagnosis or treatment.
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