As the globe marks World AIDS Day, Medionics Healthcare Limited, the exclusive distributor of OraQuick HIV self-testing kits, has highlighted the critical importance of Kenyans knowing their HIV status while advocating for the benefits of oral HIV testing.
This year’s theme focuses on the critical role that testing plays in controlling and eventually ending the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Medionics Healthcare in partnership with Orasure, the manufacturers of Oraquick HIV Self Test kits, is dedicated to increasing awareness and accessibility to HIV testing, particularly emphasizing the advantages and convenience of oral testing methods.
Oral HIV testing
With OraQuick’s Oral HIV self-testing kit, oral fluid is used to test for a variety of infections. The kit is a more desirable option for people who are afraid of traditional blood-based HIV testing.
The CEO of Medionics Healthcare Ltd Dr .S.K.Arimi says, “Oral testing is a game-changer for HIV self-testing in Kenya, it is a painless and non-invasive way to test for HIV, and it can be done in the privacy of your own home. This makes it easier for people to get tested and learn their HIV status, especially those who may be hesitant to visit a healthcare facility.”
Arimi added, “We are proud to support World AIDS Day and the fight against HIV/AIDS in Kenya. We believe that everyone should have access to the information and resources they need to prevent HIV transmission and live a healthy life.”
The OraQuick oral HIV test kit is approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), affirming its reliability as a testing method for HIV. It is accurate and effective in detecting HIV.
What are the advantages of oral HIV testing?
Oral HIV tests, which detect antibodies of HIV in the oral fluid, have several benefits.
- Non-invasive and painless: unlike traditional blood tests, oral swab tests are non-invasive requiring no blood drawn, making them more accessible to people afraid of needles.
- Convenience and privacy: the tests can be self-administered at home, providing convenience and privacy not typically associated with traditional testing methods.
- Quick and reliable results: these tests can provide results in as little as 20 minutes and are highly accurate when performed correctly.
- Encourages regular testing: the simplicity of the test encourages more people to get tested regularly, which is key in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
According to the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), an estimated 1.4 million people are living with HIV in Kenya and approximately 50,000 new infections are reported every year.
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