_____ detect the virus directly and thus can detect human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) at about 10 days after infection-as soon as it appears in the bloodstream, before antibodies develop.

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RNA tests detect the virus directly by looking for the genetic material of the virus in the bloodstream. This allows for early detection, as the virus can be detected within days of infection, even before antibodies develop. Antibody screening tests and standard HIV tests look for antibodies produced by the body in response to the virus, which can take weeks to develop. Rapid tests can detect HIV antibodies in about 20 minutes but may have a lower sensitivity than RNA tests.

_____ Detect the Virus Directly and Thus Can Detect Human