Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are provided by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• What is HIV?
• What is AIDS?
• What causes AIDS?
• How is HIV passed from one person to another?
• How can these diseases be prevented?
• What types of services does New Jersey offer for those who have HIV or AIDS?
• Where can I get treatment?
• Is financial assistance available for those who have HIV or AIDS?
• What are the different HIV screening tests available in the US?
• What is the HIV Rapid Test and where is it offered in New Jersey?
• What is the minimum age for getting tested without parental consent?
• How long after a possible exposure should I wait to get tested for HIV?
• Is there a connection between HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases?
• Why is injecting drug a risk for HIV?
• Why does CDC recommend HIV screening for all pregnant women?
• Where can I get more information about HIV?
  • NJ AIDS/STD Hotline: 1-800-624-2377
  • NJ HIV/AIDS Newsletter
  • NJ HIV/AIDS Data and Fact Sheets
  • Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

What types of services are offered for those who have HIV or AIDS?

• Free Medications
• Health Insurance Continuation
• HIV Prevention Grantee [pdf 158k]
• HIV/AIDS Counseling and Testing
• Home Care
• New Jersey HIV/AIDS Resource Directory
• Part B Agencies and Services [pdf 26k]
• Rapid Testing Sites in New Jersey
• Teen Prevention Education Program (PEP)

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What is the minimum age for getting tested without parental consent?

A law was enacted in 2006 permitting minors who are at least 13 years old to consent to medical care if the minor believes that he or she has HIV/AIDS. This law enables minors to seek testing and get tested for HIV without parental consent.

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