Dear Counsellor:

I recently heard that a good friend of mine tested positive for the AIDS virus. We had similar lifestyles, which included a number of sexual partners. We went wild and we even had sex with call girls. I would like to get an HIV test, but I don't want my wife to know anything about this test or my status. Will the doctor tell her?

Worried Friend

Dear Worried Friend:

In this situation, every effort is made to ensure the strictest confidentiality. The results of your HIV test will not be told to your wife by your doctor without your consent. You can decide whom you want to know about your test results. However, it is recommended that you seek counselling before you have the test done because of the possible physical, emotional and social consequences of a positive result.

A counsellor will tell you about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, how to protect yourself from these diseases and where you can have the test done.

The counsellor will also help you determine whether your sexual activities have indeed put you at risk and help you to understand the importance of telling all your sex partners if you are tested positive.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-4444 or write to AIDS Affair, c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.