Changes to HIV testing good for South Africa

For years, South Africa has been using rapid diagnostic HIV tests, but this is about to change.

The national Department of Health is aligning itself with the World Health Organisation’s recommendation of the three-test algorithm to ensure accuracy of results.

While the rapid test method is cheaper and provides same-day results, the new method will be a game changer as it allows for a better-detailed overview of results.

With this new system, people will be offered an additional finger prick confirmatory test, making for more accurate statistics.

During the HIV testing stage, healthcare workers follow a strict step-by-step process algorithm, guiding them to diagnose between negativity and positivity by using approved testing kits.

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov

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