The letter “C” on the spatula means “control”. A line should appear next to the letter “C” if you have followed the instructions carefully and waited 20 – 40 minutes after placing your self-test kit stick in the tube. This line means that your test is working. If NO line appears next to the letter “C”, it means that your test is not working, and you will need to obtain a new one.
The letter “T” on the spatula means “test”. A line next to the letter “T”, even if the line is weak, and a line next to the letter “C”, means that you have a reactive result and that you may have HIV. You will need a second test to confirm your result. A “T” line, even if the line is weak, and no “C” line means that the test is invalid, and you need to be retested.
If you have a reactive result, you will need a second test to confirm your result. You will need to get in touch with a health provider to assist you.