HIV testing is one of the most important health decisions you can make. Knowing your status allows you to protect yourself and others, access treatment early if positive, and live a healthy life. Our testing is completely confidential, results shared with no one without your consent.
HIV testing has a defined algorithm: screening with a rapid test, confirmation with another method. The algorithm ensures no false positives reach the patient, a reactive rapid test is never reported as positive until confirmed. Understanding the process removes unnecessary anxiety.
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Rapid Antibody Test
Detects HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies in blood within 15–30 minutes. Sensitivity above 99%. A non-reactive (negative) result on a rapid test is highly reliable after the window period. A reactive result triggers confirmatory testing. It is not reported as a positive diagnosis alone.
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ELISA Confirmatory Test
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay is the laboratory standard for HIV confirmation. Used when rapid test result is reactive or indeterminate, or when a patient requires a documented negative for employment, travel, or medical procedures. Highly sensitive and specific. Results in 24–48 hours. This method is done through a referral.
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Pre- & Post-Test Counselling
Counselling is not optional: it is part of the test. Before testing: we discuss risk factors, window period, and what a result means. After testing: we explain the result, address implications, discuss next steps (treatment referral if positive, prevention if negative), and answer all questions privately.
When to Test
Five Reasons to Get an HIV Test
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Annual Routine Testing: All Sexually Active Adults
WHO recommends HIV testing as part of routine healthcare for all sexually active adults. Many people live with HIV for years without symptoms. Annual testing normalises HIV awareness and ensures early detection, when treatment is most effective.
02
Possible Exposure: Unprotected Sex or Needle Sharing
After any potential exposure (unprotected sexual contact with unknown status partner, shared needles, or blood exposure), test at the earliest opportunity. If within 72 hours, PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) may prevent infection, seek this urgently. Test again at 90 days to confirm.
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Pregnancy: Antenatal HIV Screening
HIV-positive pregnant women transmit to their babies in up to 40% of cases without intervention, but with antiretroviral therapy, this falls below 1%. Every pregnant woman should be tested at their first antenatal visit. PMTCT (prevention of mother-to-child transmission) is highly effective when started early.
04
Pre-Employment or Travel Medical Requirements
Some employers, healthcare institutions, and certain countries require documented HIV-negative status. We provide a signed laboratory report acceptable for most employer and institutional requirements in Nigeria.
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Partner Testing or Pre-Marital Screening
Couples should know each other's HIV status before marriage and during the relationship. Testing together is a positive health decision, not a statement of distrust. We offer discreet individual or couples testing with separate result delivery.
HIV Testing Window Periods
Rapid antibody test
Reliable at 90 days
4th gen Ag/Ab test
Reliable at 45 days
PEP eligibility window
Within 72 hours
Definitive negative
90 days post-exposure
⚕️ A negative result within the window period does not rule out recent infection. If exposure was within the past 90 days, retest at 90 days for a definitive result. Tell us when your possible exposure occurred.
Preparation
How to Prepare for Your HIV Test
HIV testing is one of the simplest blood tests, almost no preparation required. What matters most is timing.
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Wait for the Window Period
HIV antibodies take up to 90 days to develop after exposure. A test done within the first few weeks may give a false-negative result, not because you don't have HIV, but because your body hasn't produced detectable antibodies yet. If you tested early, retest at 90 days for certainty.
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No Dietary Preparation Needed
No fasting, no dietary restriction. HIV testing is a simple blood draw, come as you are. You can eat and drink normally. The only preparation is knowing when your possible exposure was, so we can advise whether the timing is appropriate for a definitive result.
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Your Result Is Private
Your HIV test result is protected by patient confidentiality. It will not be disclosed to your employer, family members, or partner without your explicit written consent. You choose who receives your result. We enforce that boundary absolutely.
Why Choose Us
Trusted HIV Testing in Akoka & Beyond
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Absolute Confidentiality: No Exceptions
HIV status is among the most private health information a person holds. We follow strict ethical and legal confidentiality protocols. Results are delivered to you alone, never disclosed to family, employers, or partners without your written consent.
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Counselling Before and After: Included
Pre-test counselling prepares you for any result. Post-test counselling explains what your result means, what to do next, and how to protect yourself and others. Counselling is not an add-on. It is part of responsible HIV testing practice.
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30-Minute Rapid Results
The rapid antibody test gives results in 15–30 minutes. You do not leave wondering. Positive results trigger immediate confirmatory testing and counselling. You leave knowing your status and your next step, whichever the result.
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Referral to Treatment if Positive
A positive result is not the end. It is the beginning of a manageable health journey. We provide immediate referral to antiretroviral treatment services and support: HIV-positive patients today have normal life expectancy on treatment.
"I was terrified to test. The counsellor at Mascot Healthcare spent time before and after the test, explained everything, answered my questions, was completely non-judgmental. The result was negative. I was so relieved. I'll test every year from now on."
Prices change, so we don't print them on this page. The current price is on our live price list, or call 0816 586 6252 to ask.
When are you open?
Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM. We are closed on Sundays and Nigerian public holidays.
How should I prepare?
See our test and scan preparation guide. Good to know for this test: Results in 30 minutes. If you are unsure, message us on WhatsApp before you come.
Can I come here in an emergency?
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.