UNDERSTANDING TESTS FOR HIV: WHO SHOULD GET TESTED
The blood test for HIV infection can now be justified for virtually any person concerned about HIV infection. Most clinics that treat sexually transmitted diseases will routinely test for HIV. Some hospitals are also contemplating using the HIV antibody test as one of the routine tests for admission. Many advocate testing pregnant women, especially those whose behavior puts them at risk for HIV infection and those in cities where the rates of HIV infection are high. In addition, it is often recommended that the following people should get tested: those who have engaged in behaviors that run the risk of exposure to HIV; those who have medical conditions that suggest HIV infection; those who pose a risk of spreading HIV infection to others; those who want to participate in a research study or a clinical trial and those who simply are concerned and want to take the test. People with these behaviors should get the blood test for HIV infection.*255\191\2*
