In the fall of 2021, when Javier’s sexual activity increased, he wanted to get tested for HIV, but he was nervous.
“I was really, really scared to get tested,” he says. “In particular, I was worried about certain things being on my medical profile forever. I had this preconception that there would be a mark on my record just for getting tested, because I’m a healthcare professional.”
Javier works as part of the research team in of BMC’s Pediatric Infectious Diseases department.
Javier opened up to his friends and asked their advice: “They were so supportive. Every single one of them told me that there’s nothing wrong with getting periodically tested.”
Then, one of his coworkers told him about BMC’s HIV/STI prevention and screening clinic. It was a place he could trust to keep the details of his medical history safe and confidential. After three months of thinking about it, Javier decided to visit the clinic to get tested.
“Those first few tests were the scariest thing. But it was even scarier to think I could be HIV positive and not know," Javier says. "If you don’t know your status, you’re always going to have that fear that you could be spreading the virus around to other people, or living with it unmanaged.”
After tests confirmed he was negative, Javier started taking PrEP, a medication that minimizes his chances of contracting HIV. “I’m obsessive about taking my pill every day, and I’ve had no side effects. The pill is really small and so easy to take, and it adds a level of reassurance that I’m protected.”
He shares his story to encourage others to get tested every three months, like he does.
“Irrespective of what the outcome of your test is, it will be okay. You will be okay. We're very lucky that HIV can be easily diagnosed and treated now. People who are HIV positive can lead long, healthy lives.”