PNG rolls out home HIV testing

Papua New Guineans can now screen for HIV/AIDs without stigma and discrimination in the comfort of their homes, marking a huge step in increased access to testing across the country.

This after the official launch and hand over of 26-thousand HIV/AIDs self-screening kits to the National Department of Health by the United Nations today in Port Moresby.

The kits are from a batch of 52,000 procured and represent 10% of the country’s annual HIV testing target.

These batch to be distributed to NCD, Morobe, Eastern Highlands and Western Highlands provinces, follow on from the pilot in NCD which saw 742 people accessing self-screening service, from whom 11 were diagnosed and linked to treatment.

The self-screening kit contains a QR code for instructions on use, includes a test device, preservative, developer vial, test stand and disposal bag, is non-invasive like other standards tests, only using a tongue swab.

UN Resident Coordinator Shalini Bahuguna says these kits will ensure the HIV curve is bended, and that HIV testing is normalized and done confidentially.

There is an estimated 120,000 people living with HIV/AIDS in the country with approximately 11,000 new infections annually and 30 cases daily, of which 60% are women.

Health Secretary Pascoe Kase when thanking UN for the kits, described it as an important milestone in the expansion of the HIV/AIDS screening program in the country.

The kits cost a total of over $55,000 or over K240,000 with each kit costing a dollar.

While accessible, those who test and whatever the outcome will make the decision of going for further tests or treatment.