INTERGRATION OF RAPID TESTING IN HIV PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

PROGRAMES:
INTRODUCTION: HIV (Human Immuno deficiency Virus) is a micro-organism that
attacks the immune system and thus weakens the bodys defense mechanism. Much has
already been known and heard about HIV and so we need not over emphasize here.
Considering the various ways and means in which the HIV is contracted and transmitted,
it is but very imperative to integrate rapid testing devices in order to:
1) Identify cases already infected.
2) Prevent the further spread of the infection from those already infected to those not yet
infected.
3) Help in the treatment and follow- up of those already infected with the use of Anti-
Retrovirals (ARVs) or otherwise.
The following are well known ways and means by which the virus can be
transmitted:
I) Through blood transfusion with contaminated or improperly screened blood.
II) Through unprotected sexual contact or intercourse with an infected partner.
III) From an infected mother to the child.
IV) By use of contaminated unsterilized needles and sharps, including surgical equipment.
The integration of rapid test for HIV with high sensitivity and specificity will help a long
way in the prevention, spread and treatment of this global pandemic.
a) With the scrupulous and mandatory testing of all blood donors, the risk of transmitting
the virus has been significantly reduced (though not 100% save), therefore donors
should be carefully selected and transfusions done only when absolutely necessary.
b) The voluntary counseling and testing of partners prior to marriage has also helped in
reducing the spread of the infection drastically.
c) During epidemiological surveys, that is sentinel surveillance studies either in
communities or groups for example Commercial sex workers, cases identified can be
followed up for possible treatment. This can help in breaking the transmission chain for
the virus.
d) The voluntary and compulsory testing of all pregnant women during antenatal clinic
sessions (ANC) example for the option B + programs helps identify cases and thus
appropriate measures taking to prevent the unborn child from getting the infection from
the mother.
e) All children born of HIV positive mothers are HIV sero-positive. In other to ascertain
their real status therefore, more sophisticated test like the PCR have to be performed at
that early age of between 01 to 18 months. The outcome of such results determines how
they will be followed up for possible treatment. Serological tests for antibodies for
children below 18 months do not ascertain their real status, since they are indirect tests.
At this stage, a childs immune system is not yet matured or fully developed to start
producing its own antibodies; if at all the child is infected.
CONCLUSSION:
It is therefore worth noting that the integration of rapid testing in HIV helps in the
diagnosis, prevention and treatment of HIV infection.
Humbly submitted
MOSONGO PAUL NANGERI
pmosongo@yahoo.com