AboutIan Expertise All aspects of HIV and AIDS, with a special interest in a person`s individual perception and understanding of the virus. Why ? Because this will help in prevention !
Experience As teacher and researcher in the field of HIV and AIDS care.
Organizations I am a lecturer at a University in the UK, and advise a number of organisations on HIV/AIDS and especially the stigma that surrounds HIV.
Expert: Ian Date: 4/25/2008 Subject: Risk of infection, worried about ARS symptoms
Question I'd like to thank you in advance for taking the time to answer my questions.
I'm a 18-year-old female living in England, and on March 27th I had unprotected sex with a black male. I don't know his status. 18 days later, I developed a sore throat, which seemed to go away in a couple of days. 26 days after exposure, I developed a red spot on my uvula, and the next day my sore throat came back. My glands seem to be swollen in my neck, also. It's now 29 days since exposure, and I'm a nervous wreck, though I know my symptoms aren't ARS-specific.
My questions are -
1. What is the risk of HIV in my situation?
2. Would it be worth getting tested now, or is it too early?
3. What are the actual symptoms of ARS?
Thanks again for your time.
Answer Hi
Thanks for your question, and I can see why you're worried. Well, from a one-off episode of unprotected sex, the chance of catching HIV from an infected person is around 1 to 2%. Your symptoms could be due to lots of things - and the usual signs of ARS (when they appear - often they don't) are a fever, inflamed lymph glands, and feeling unwell for a time (like 'flu).
If you're really concerned that the guy could have been HIV positive, then you could consider a test - there are many places in the UK you can be tested (look in the phone book for sexual health clinics - or the Terence Higgins Trust). BUT - I do believe the risk is low...though of course there is still a risk. You should get tested around 12 weeks following your possible contact if you think this is needed.
A great website I recommend for HIV info is here:
www.avert.org
Feel free to send a follow up if you need specific info - this will be a difficult time for you....
