# HIV test: what it is, who needs it and what results mean

_HIV test: who needs it, how often, how it is done and what results mean, with Kenya guidance and costs._

Canonical: https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/screening-tests/hiv-test

Author: My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by: the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026

Last updated: 7 Oct 2026 · Published by My Wellness Health — Preventive Healthcare & Care Navigation

> An HIV test checks for HIV infection. In Kenya it is recommended for everyone; the general population should test every two years, every two years, more often with ongoing risk, and after any exposure.

**HIV test at a glance**

| Who needs it | How often | What results mean | Cost |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Everyone; the general population should test every two years. | Every two years, more often with ongoing risk, and after any exposure. | A reactive self-test must be confirmed at a facility; an inconclusive test is repeated after 14 days. | Free at public facilities in Kenya; self-test kits are sold at pharmacies. |

## HIV test: common questions

**Q: What does the HIV test check for?**

A: HIV infection.

**Q: Who should have it?**

A: Everyone; the general population should test every two years.

**Q: How often?**

A: Every two years, more often with ongoing risk, and after any exposure.

**Q: How is it done?**

A: A finger-prick rapid test at a facility, or an HIV self-test at home.

**Q: What do the results mean?**

A: A reactive self-test must be confirmed at a facility; an inconclusive test is repeated after 14 days.

**Q: What does it cost?**

A: Free at public facilities in Kenya; self-test kits are sold at pharmacies.

**Q: How can My Wellness Health help?**

A: My Wellness Health's risk assessment (Confidential sexual and urinary health check, KES 500) looks at your symptoms, history and lifestyle and gives you a personalised risk report with clear next steps. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours to help you book any screening you need at a facility that suits your budget and location. Assessment fees do not include tests or consultations at the facility.

This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.

## Sources

- [My Wellness Health](https://www.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/)
- [NASCOP, Kenya HIV Testing Services Operational Manual (2022)](https://www.prepwatch.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenya-HTS-Manual.pdf)
- [Ministry of Health Kenya, Protocols for Management of Selected NCDs at Primary Care (2025)](https://health.go.ke/sites/default/files/2025-07/FINAL_NCD%20protocols.pdf)

## Other screening tests

- [STI screening in Kenya: who needs it and results](https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/screening-tests/sti-screening)
- [Urine test for UTI in Kenya: who needs it and results](https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/screening-tests/urine-test-for-uti)