Where to Get Tested for Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV-1 and HTLV-2) in San Antonio
Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV-1 and HTLV-2) are two types of retroviruses that can cause serious health problems. HTLV-1 is associated with a rare form of leukemia and a neurological disease, while HTLV-2 is linked to a type of blood cancer and can also weaken the immune system. It is important to get tested for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2, especially if you are at high risk for these viruses. In San Antonio, there are several places where you can get tested.
How to Get Tested for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2
The most common way to test for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 is through a blood test. The blood is usually drawn from a vein in your arm, and the sample is sent to a laboratory for testing. The test looks for antibodies to the viruses in your blood. If the test is positive, a second test is usually done to confirm the results.
Who Should Get Tested for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2
There are certain groups of people who are at higher risk for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 and should get tested. These groups include:
– People who have had unprotected sex with someone who is infected with HTLV-1 or HTLV-2
– People who have shared needles or syringes with someone who is infected with HTLV-1 or HTLV-2
– People who have received blood transfusions or organ transplants before 1985
– People who were born in or have lived in areas where HTLV-1 is common, such as Japan, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, and parts of Central and South America
– People who have a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS or who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy
Where to Get Tested in San Antonio
There are several places in San Antonio where you can get tested for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2. These include:
1. San Antonio AIDS Foundation
The San Antonio AIDS Foundation provides free HIV and STI testing, including HTLV-1 and HTLV-2, at its testing center located at 818 E. Grayson Street. Testing is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and no appointment is necessary. The testing center also offers counseling and referrals to medical care and support services.
2. University Health System
The University Health System offers HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 testing at several of its clinics throughout San Antonio. To schedule an appointment, call 210-358-4000. You will need to provide your insurance information or pay for the test out of pocket.
3. CentroMed
CentroMed has several clinics throughout San Antonio that offer HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 testing. To schedule an appointment, visit their website or call 210-922-7000. CentroMed accepts most insurance plans, and also offers a sliding fee scale for those who are uninsured or underinsured.
4. Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood offers HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 testing, as well as other STI testing, at its San Antonio health center located at 2140 Babcock Road. To schedule an appointment, visit their website or call 210-736-2244. Planned Parenthood accepts most insurance plans, and also offers a sliding fee scale for those who are uninsured or underinsured.
FAQs
Q: Can I get tested for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 anonymously?
A: No, you cannot get tested anonymously for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 in San Antonio. All testing requires identification and contact information.
Q: How long does it take to get the results of an HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 test?
A: It usually takes a few days to a week to get the results of an HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 test.
Q: Is there a cure for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2?
A: There is no cure for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and preventing complications.
Q: If I test positive for HTLV-1 or HTLV-2, what should I do?
A: If you test positive for HTLV-1 or HTLV-2, you should talk to your healthcare provider about your options for treatment and management. You should also inform your sexual partners and anyone else who may have been exposed to the virus so that they can get tested and treated if necessary.
Q: How can I prevent getting infected with HTLV-1 and HTLV-2?
A: The best way to prevent getting infected with HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 is to practice safe sex by using condoms, not sharing needles or syringes, and avoiding blood transfusions and organ transplants from unscreened donors. If you are at high risk for these viruses, you should get tested regularly.