Routine testing for HIV and Hepatitis B/ Hepatitis C

We are now offering routine Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV testing in our Emergency Department for all our patients aged 18 and over who are having bloods taken for another reasons.

This automatic testing is part of a national NHS initiative to test in areas where there is highest prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C (which includes Northamptonshire) to detect people living with the viruses, offer treatment, and ultimately save lives.

Why should I be treated?

  • HIV and Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C are viruses carried in the blood. 
    Many people with these viruses have no symptoms and are unaware of carrying them.
  • Knowing you have (or do not have) HIV or Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C means that you can protect yourself and others.

How do the viruses affect your health?

  • HIV affects the immune system by making it weaker, meaning it is much harder for the body to fight off infection.
  • Late diagnosis of HIV reduces life expectancy by around 15 years and causes significant ill-health.
  • Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver damage (cirrhosis) and liver cancer.

If I have a virus, could I pass it on to others?

  • It is possible to pass these viruses to others through sex, or contact with infected blood, (e.g. sharing needles).
  • Taking treatment regularly eliminates the risk of passing the viruses onto others.

Do treatments help for those diagnosed with HIV and Hepatitis B/Hepatitis?

  • HIV can be managed with daily tablets, these antiretroviral medicines, work by stopping the virus replicating in the body, allowing the immune system to repair itself and prevent further damage.
  • If diagnosed early enough, people with HIV can live a long and healthy life.
  • Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C can be cured with a simple 12-week course of a tablet a day.
  • Ignoring Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C can lead to liver failure and liver cancer. 

How do I know if I have Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C or HIV?

  • The only way to know is to get a specific blood test, which is not usually included in blood tests done by your GP.
  • We are now routinely providing HIV and Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C testing for all our patients aged 18 and over who are having their blood taken in our Emergency Department for other reasons. 

How will I receive the results of my blood test?

  • If you have a reactive result (provisional positive), we will contact you to arrange an appointment and discuss the next steps.
  • If you do not hear from us within 28 days, you can assume that your HIV and Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C B&C test was negative. If for some reason your sample was unable to be tested for technical reasons, a member of the team will contact you and offer a retest.
  • You can also access your results by contacting our testing team on 03000 270084

How long after acquiring HIV or Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C can it be detected?

  • It can take 6-12 weeks for HIV and up to 6 months for Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C to be detectable on a blood test after you have been infected.
  • If you have been at recent risk, you can get another test through your GP or local sexual health service. 

What if I don’t want to be tested?

  • If you do not want to have your blood tested for HIV and/or Hepatitis B/Hepatitis C please let a member of staff know each time you are tested.
  • Please note that your results will be kept confidential, and we will only contact you if you have a provisional positive result.