HIV Window Period

Duration of three to six months is considered a safe HIV window period to get accurate results on tests for HIV antibodies. On an average, it takes 12-24 weeks for the production of HIV antibodies which can be detected with the help of available tests.

HIV stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, it affects the immune system of an infected person and causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) which is fatal. Statistics show that more than one million people are living with HIV in the US alone, and a large number of the population is unaware of their status because they haven't got themselves tested. A test is considered to be accurate only if it's done after the HIV window period of 12-24 weeks. Most people don't get themselves tested due to the stigma associated with the disease and some who do, don't know about the HIV window period due to the lack of awareness.