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Canada Approves New Oral HIV Self-Test
11 Feb
Summary
- Canada now offers an oral HIV self-test approved by Health Canada.
- The OraQuick test uses saliva and provides results in 20 minutes.
- This less invasive option aims to reach undiagnosed individuals.
Health Canada has approved OraQuick, a new oral HIV self-test, marking the first of its kind in the country. This innovative test utilizes a saliva swab, providing results in as little as 20 minutes, offering a less invasive alternative to previous finger-prick blood tests. The MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions in Toronto is the exclusive distributor in Canada and will begin accepting online orders shortly.
This development is significant as Canada saw an increase in new HIV diagnoses in 2023. Experts hope these more accessible and portable tests will help identify some of the approximately 7,000 undiagnosed HIV cases. The test is particularly beneficial for communities at higher risk, including racialized individuals, men who have sex with men, and those who inject drugs.
OraQuick, already approved in the U.S. since 2012 and used globally, is expected to cost between $15 to $20. While studies indicate high accuracy, health professionals recommend confirming oral test results with a laboratory blood test. Efforts are underway to explore potential government funding to further reduce costs and improve accessibility for vulnerable populations.
