Africa Exposure

[TED101]

Hi

I unprotected exposure in while working in Cameroon 3 months ago, Got very ill 3 weeks after exposure with classic ARS symtpoms. I have very swollen neck/armpits still. I am now back home to USA. I will test soon. Where can I get a test that will include Group N and O infections that are found in Cameroon?  Is there a specifici test or lab I can go to for these?

[Teak]

Group N is very rare only 17 people have ever been exposed with Group N. You are tested for antibodies produced by group N with an ELISA test as well as group M and O.

[TED101]

The prescription was for HIV1/2 ab screen.  How come I have seen posts and sites on internet that says Group N not tested for usually in U.S. and only some tests are valid for Group O ? Is that old information? All labs now test for Group N in regular AB screen.

[Teak]

An ELISA test will pick up antibodies from groups M/N/O. I'm sure if you gave them the same info you gave here you were tested for both HIV1 and HIV2.

[Vance2335]

5 days really doesn't matter that much. I am not an expert on testing or test so i am not sure. Others will know.

[TED101]

Thanks Vance,

In the mean time I took a regular antibody test the day I got home at 11 weeks and 2 days past exposure. I should have those results back any day now.  Would those results be considered conclusive for everything but Group N/O infection? Or do I need to go back after again past 12 weeks? Does 5 days really matter?

[Vance2335]

Go to your Dr or to a clinic and tell them what you are looking to test for they will be able to help you. You might also try calling the CDC or your states Health Department.