combined test...reliable for all strains of HIV?

[Mary86]

hi there

i just tested negative for antibody and antigen at six weeks post possible exposure...i was just wondering if the combined test is reliable for picking up all strains of HIV, even the rarer ones?? (ive just returned from african travel...symptoms still wont go away! everyone is convinced its all in my head but im not so sure)
thanks

[Teak]

No that is not true about the window period. The window period is there because not all people produce enough antibodies for the tests to detect and most all will be detectable at 3 months.

[Mary86]

i had a condom break in africa....the counsellor who just gave me the result said its highly unlikely to change and thinks the symptoms are all stress related...said the window period is only there because some people arent sure exactly of when their last exposure occured, is this true?

[Teak]

What was your risk? If you had unprotected anal or vaginal sex you need to confirm your test at 3 months post exposure.