HIV/Syphilis/HCV Rapid Tests

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis C (HCV), we are here to help. Aids-Hilfe Konstanz offers free rapid tests following a potential risk exposure — anonymously, confidentially, and with personal counselling.

Rapid tests are available at the following checkpoint locations:

• Checkpoint Office Konstanz
• Checkpoint Office Singen
• Checkpoint Medical Care Centre (MVZ) Singen – Worblinger Straße

Simply call us at +49 7531 / 21113 to arrange a personal appointment. A test is more than just a result. With us, you have the opportunity to ask questions, talk about your personal situation, and take the time to understand everything thoroughly.

HIV Rapid Test

For the HIV rapid test, a small amount of blood is taken from the fingertip. The sample is placed into a test device — the result is generally available within approximately 15 minutes.

The HIV rapid test used is a 4th-generation test (combination test), which detects both antibodies against HIV-1 and HIV-2 as well as the p24 antigen. Due to the so-called diagnostic window, even this test may yield a false-negative result shortly after infection.

Based on current scientific evidence, a negative result can be considered largely conclusive no earlier than 6 weeks after the last possible exposure. A definitively reliable negative result can only be assumed after 12 weeks.

Syphilis Rapid Test

The syphilis rapid test is also an antibody test. A meaningful result can be expected no earlier than 3–6 weeks after potential exposure. In individual cases, the diagnostic window may extend to up to 12 weeks.

Hepatitis C Rapid Test

The hepatitis C rapid test is likewise an antibody screening test. As with the HIV test, the body requires time following infection to produce antibodies. A meaningful result can generally be expected no earlier than 8–12 weeks after potential HCV exposure.

The hepatitis C rapid test is not suitable for individuals who have previously had a hepatitis C infection or who have cleared the infection. In such cases, antibodies remain permanently present in the blood — the test would react to these and would therefore not yield a meaningful result.

Important Notice: A reactive test result does not constitute a conclusive diagnosis and always requires further medical evaluation. A negative result is only meaningful if the test-specific diagnostic window — that is, the period between a possible exposure and reliable detection by the respective test — has fully elapsed.