HIV testing is a crucial component of efforts to address the HIV epidemic. Testing for HIV identifies those with infection so that they may receive antiretroviral treatment, which both improves their health and prevents transmission of HIV to others. In addition, PrEP, which prevents HIV acquisition among people with a higher risk for infection, requires testing prior to administration. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommend universal HIV testing at least once in a person’s lifetime. In addition, testing is recommended in each pregnancy and at least annually for people with a high likelihood for infection, such as sexually-active men who have sex with men and people who inject drugs. Periodic testing is also recommended for people taking PrEP. Unfortunately, approximately 13% of people with HIV do not know about their HIV status. Efforts to increase testing uptake and access are needed. Expanding HIV testing can be achieved through self-testing and rapid testing.
