HIV Testing

All HIV testing in BC is confidential but some people want to be completely anonymous when they test and that option is now available at certain locations in Fraser Health.

Who should get tested and why?

HIV testing can be considered part of your regular care. HIV can be transmitted by vaginal, anal, or even oral sex (especially unprotected sex), sharing drug equipment, or during pregnancy, birthing, or breastfeeding. This means that just about everyone should think about getting an HIV test!

The sooner someone gets a test, the sooner HIV can be detected and treatment can begin. Treatment protects your immune system and lowers the chances of passing HIV on to others. Treatment is simpler and more effective than ever and means many people can live strong, healthy lives.

Where can I learn more about HIV?

Visit the BC Centre for Disease Control website Smart Sex Resource for more information about HIV and AIDS and many other health conditions.

Anywhere in British Columbia, at any time, you can call 8-1-1 to speak with a nurse about HIV and many other health issues, or visit HealthLinkBCfor their information sheet on HIV infection or HIV testing.

Or, you can call your local health unit.

What can I do if I have HIV?

If you live in Fraser Region and test positive for HIV, a public health nurse will contact you. Our staff has a full set of supports and resources for you and will help you through the next steps.

Positive Living BC, an independent organization, helps people living with HIV. They offer many services including assistance from Peer Navigators (who can help show how other people live with HIV), workshops, and education. Visit their Newly Diagnosed website or phone 604-908-7710.

You can also phone the blood-borne pathogen (HIV) nursing team:

• Fraser North: 604-777-6709 (Burnaby, New Westminster, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows)
• Fraser South: 604-587-7902 (Surrey, South Surrey/White Rock, Delta, Langley)
• Fraser East: 604-864-3437 (Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Hope Agassiz)

Or try:

• Positive Health Clinic: 604-582-4581
• Fraser Health Crisis Line: 1-877-820-7444

STOP HIV/AIDS Initiative

Over a quarter of Canadians living with HIV do not know they are infected, while two-thirds of new cases are only diagnosed after patients should already be on treatment (CD4 counts under 500 cells/mm3). Therefore, there is a gap in testing: some people with HIV are never tested, and some are tested too late. Earlier diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the health of patients with HIV. In addition, there is mounting evidence that early and effective treatment can significantly reduce the transmission of HIV.

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has transformed HIV infection into a chronic, manageable condition for many of those who engage in care. For individuals who are treatment ready and clinically eligible, timely diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce HIV related morbidity and mortality, as well as slow the spread of the pandemic.

For more information, contact Diana Westbrook atdiana.westbrook@fraserhealth.ca