HIV testing is a multi-step process. A reactive rapid test is not a final diagnosis. It requires confirmation using specialised methods. Our confirmatory testing includes Unigold (rapid differentiation) and JAK-STAT (advanced immunoassay). We ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and expert counselling at every stage.
HIV diagnosis follows a strict algorithm to eliminate false positives. A reactive rapid screening test is always confirmed with a second, more specific method. Confirmatory testing is essential before any positive diagnosis is communicated to the patient. We use three complementary confirmatory methods to ensure absolute accuracy.
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Unigold HIV Confirmatory Test
Unigold is a rapid, point-of-care confirmatory test that differentiates between HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies. It is used as a second-line confirmatory method after a reactive rapid screening test. Unigold is highly specific and reduces the need for laboratory-based confirmation in many cases, allowing faster resolution of indeterminate results.
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JAK-STAT HIV Assay
JAK-STAT is an advanced immunoassay platform for HIV confirmation. It detects both HIV antibodies and p24 antigen, enabling earlier detection than antibody-only tests. The JAK-STAT method is highly sensitive, reducing the window period significantly. It is used as a third-line confirmatory test or when clinical suspicion is high despite negative rapid tests.
Confirmatory Testing Process
Understanding the HIV Confirmatory Algorithm
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Step 1: Rapid Screening Test (First Response)
This is your first test: a rapid antibody test using a finger-prick blood sample. If the result is non-reactive (negative), we explain what it means. If reactive (positive), we do not report it as a positive diagnosis. Instead, we proceed to confirmatory testing. This process prevents unnecessary anxiety from false positives.
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Step 2: Unigold Confirmatory Test
Unigold is the first confirmatory test performed on a reactive sample. It uses a different antigen preparation from the screening test, reducing the chance of cross-reaction. Unigold can differentiate between HIV-1 and HIV-2, important for treatment planning. A non-reactive Unigold result rules out HIV infection with high confidence.
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Step 3: JAK-STAT Confirmation
If Unigold is also reactive, we proceed to JAK-STAT, the final confirmatory method. JAK-STAT detects p24 antigen in addition to antibodies, catching early infections. A positive result confirms HIV infection. A negative result means the initial reactive test was a false positive.
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Step 4: Post-Test Counselling & Result Delivery
Regardless of the final result, you receive comprehensive post-test counselling. If negative: we discuss prevention, retesting intervals, and risk reduction. If positive: we deliver the result with care, explain what it means, and provide immediate referral to antiretroviral therapy (ART) services. You are never left alone with a positive result.
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Step 5: Documentation & Referral
If you need a documented HIV test result for employment, travel, or medical records, we issue a signed laboratory report. If positive, we connect you with treatment centres and support groups: HIV is a manageable condition with modern ART, and we ensure you have access to the care you need.
HIV Confirmatory Methods Comparison
Unigold (Rapid Confirmatory)
A second rapid test, different kit
JAK-STAT (Immunoassay)
Antibodies and p24 antigen
Sensitivity & Specificity
>99% for both methods
⚕️ A final positive diagnosis is only made after at least two confirmatory tests agree. This protects you from the emotional distress of a false positive result.
Preparation for Confirmatory Testing
What to Expect During Confirmatory Testing
Confirmatory testing requires a blood sample: slightly more than a finger prick, but no special preparation is needed.
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Venous Blood Sample
Confirmatory tests require a venous blood draw (from the arm), not just a finger prick. This provides enough sample for Unigold and JAK-STAT. The process takes less than 5 minutes and is performed by our experienced phlebotomists.
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No Fasting Required
You do not need to fast or change your diet before confirmatory HIV testing. Eat normally, take your medications, and stay hydrated. The only requirement is to inform us of any anticoagulant medications you are taking.
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Documentation & Consent
Confirmatory testing requires informed consent. We explain the process, potential outcomes, and your rights before proceeding. You will sign a consent form confirming you understand the testing algorithm. Your sample is labelled with a unique code, your identity remains protected throughout.
Why Confirmatory Testing Matters
Accurate HIV Diagnosis You Can Trust
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Confirmed Before Any Diagnosis
A single reactive rapid test is not a diagnosis. A reactive result is checked with Unigold and JAK-STAT, which use different antigen targets, before anyone tells you that you have HIV.
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HIV-1 and HIV-2 Differentiation
Unigold and JAK-STAT differentiate between HIV-1 and HIV-2. This is important because treatment and monitoring differ between the two types. You receive a precise diagnosis, not a generic "positive" result.
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Documented Results for All Purposes
We provide official, signed laboratory reports acceptable for employment, travel, visa applications, hospital admissions, and insurance purposes. Your result is documented professionally and confidentially.
No. We don't handle emergencies. For chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke, heavy bleeding or any other emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 112.
Do you accept HMO or health insurance?
Not at the moment. You pay at the clinic by cash, card, POS or bank transfer.