HIV testing strategies should be carefully tailored to specific settings and
populations. Screening algorithms typically include rapid test, ELISA and Western blot
testing cascades. Over the counter consumer tests for oral fluids are expanding in
developed countries, and early infant diagnosis screening programs such as Dried
Blood Spot (DBS) testing are expanding in developing countries with high HIV
prevalence. Advanced nucleic and PCR based testing platforms continue to be
simplified as Point of Care (POC) equipment by numerous manufacturers.
Psychosocial support and counseling are critical components of effective HIV testing
programs in any community, and serve as a bridge between testing activities and early
uptake to treatment regimens.
Keywords: DBS, EID, ELISA, Harm reduction, HIV testing, Oral fluid tests,
Point of Care, Psychosocial support, Rapid tests, Serology, Western blot.
