HIV Testing in Nakuru: What to Expect, PEP Within 72 Hours and Staying Negative
What happens during an HIV test, how long results take, what PEP and PrEP are, and why testing is confidential. Testing available 24 hours at Primegala, Maili Sita.
- Written by
- Primegala Clinical Team
- Published
- Reading time
- 2 min read
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Short answer: An HIV test at Primegala is confidential, uses a finger-prick sample and usually gives results in about 20 minutes. If you think you were exposed in the last 72 hours, come in immediately for PEP, medicine that can prevent infection.
Walking in for an HIV test takes courage. Here's exactly what happens, so there are no surprises.
What happens during the test
- A private conversation. A trained counsellor explains the test, asks about recent risks and answers your questions.
- A finger-prick. A few drops of blood are tested with a rapid test kit.
- Your result. Usually in about 20 minutes. The counsellor explains what it means.
- Next steps. Whatever the result, you leave with a plan.
If your result is negative
- Stay negative: condoms, knowing your partner's status, and PrEP if you're at ongoing risk.
- Recent exposure? If the risk was very recent, your counsellor may recommend a repeat test after a few weeks.
If your result is positive
A positive result today is very different from twenty years ago. With treatment (antiretroviral therapy, ART), people with HIV live long, healthy lives. When treatment keeps the virus undetectable, HIV is not passed on to sexual partners (Undetectable = Untransmittable). We'll link you to care the same day.
PEP: emergency prevention after exposure
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a 28-day course of medicine that can prevent HIV after a possible exposure, such as unprotected sex, a condom breaking, sexual assault or a needle-stick injury.
- Start as soon as possible, within 72 hours.
- Don't wait for morning. We're open 24 hours.
- If you've experienced sexual assault, we will treat you with dignity and help you access care and support.
PrEP: ongoing prevention
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is medicine taken by HIV-negative people at ongoing risk, for example someone whose partner is HIV-positive. Taken as prescribed, it's highly effective. Ask us whether PrEP is right for you.
Your privacy is protected
Your result is shared only with you. Health information is protected under the Health Act, 2017 and the Data Protection Act, 2019. Read our Privacy Policy.
Test at Primegala
HIV testing and counselling is available 24 hours at Maili Sita, opposite Kiamaina Primary School. Walk in. You don't need an appointment.
At Primegala
HIV Testing & Counselling
Confidential testing with results in minutes, PEP and PrEP guidance.
- Open 24 hours, every day, including public holidays
- Maili Sita, opposite Kiamaina Primary School
- SHA accepted for eligible services
Frequently asked questions
How soon after exposure should I take PEP?
As soon as possible, and within 72 hours (3 days) of a possible exposure. The sooner PEP is started, the better it works. Come in at any hour.
Can a negative result be wrong if I was exposed recently?
If the exposure was very recent, the test may not yet detect infection. Your counsellor will advise whether to repeat the test after a few weeks.
Will anyone else know my result?
No. Your result is confidential and shared only with you, as required by Kenyan law.