Anonymous HIV Testing

Free and anonymous HIV testing is available to individuals at high risk for HIV by calling (815) 802-9300 or email us at info@kankakeehealth.org to schedule an appointment.

People at high risk for HIV include individuals who:

  • have injected drugs or steriods or shared equipment (needles, cotton, and water)
  • have had sex with someone who injects drugs or steriods
  • have had vaginal, oral, or anal sex with a man who’s had sex with another man
  • have had sex with someone known to be HIV positive
  • have had sex in exchange for drugs, money, or shelter
  • have been diagnosed with 2 or more STDs in a year
  • have had 6 or more sexual partners in the past month
When should you be tested?
Think about the last time you put yourself at risk for HIV. Schedule your appointment at least 3 months from that time as it can take your body 3 months for an HIV test to detect infection.
How does the HIV test work?
When HIV enters the blood, the body reacts by making cells called antibodies. Most HIV tests look for these HIV antibodies and not for the virus itself. It can take the body up to three months to produce enough antibodies to be detectable on the test. This 3-month time frame is known as the window period. If you are tested during the window period, the HIV test may not be able to detect infection.
To perform the HIV test, cells are collected and tested for HIV antibodies. At the Kankakee County Health Department an oral HIV test called OraSure is used. OraSure collects cells from inside the cheek using a small cotton pad placed between the lower cheek and teeth. This is a painless process that takes 3-5 minutes. NO needles, NO blood. The cotton pad is then sent to a state lab for testing. Results take approximately 1 week.
What’s the difference between anonymous and confidential testing?
Basically, anonymous HIV testing means that your name is never known or recorded. Instead, you are assigned a unique number in order to track your results. With an anonymous test you will not be able to receive a copy of your test results. In confidential testing, your name is recorded in your HIV testing file and appears on the test results. However, your name will not and cannot be released to anyone without your written permission. In either case, your HIV file is kept in a secure location.
Things to consider before your HIV test.
  • For some, taking an HIV test can be a scary process. However, it is also one of the best ways to fight HIV/AIDS.
  • Try to identify people (family, friends, a teacher you trust, a member of your religious community, etc.) that you cant talk to openly before you take the test. They might even be willing to come with you to the test site for support.
  • Think about what you will do if you test negative, as well as what you will do if you test positive. Do you feel ready for either result? If you find out you’re negative how will you stay that way? If you’re positive, how will you use that information to take care of yourself and your partners?
Can I be tested for other diseases and infections?
During this appointment you will only be tested for HIV. If you are interested in being tested for other sexually transmitted diseases please go to our STD clinic section for further information.
Services for HIV positive individuals
If you are a person living with HIV/AIDS in Kankakee County there may be services available to you. Enrolling in case management services can help you identify your needs and goals and access those resources that can help. Some programs include medical and/or dental assistance, help with rent and utilities, legal assistance, and supoprt groups and personal counseling. Each program has eligibility requirements. To determine if you’re eligible you should call (815) 802-9435. You will need to provide proof that you have applied for and/or use other available resources such as public housing, Township, Public Aid, utility assistance, etc.