S. Africa introduces self-test kits for HIV testing

South Africa, which has a high HIV/AIDS prevalence, has introduced self-test kits for HIV test, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.

These self-test kits have recently been approved by the South African Pharmacy Council and are available over the counter in retail pharmacies, Ramaphosa said in a reply to parliamentary questions.

"It is critical to highlight that these kits are to be used only for screening, and those who screen positive must go to a health facility to have the confirmatory test done," he noted.

The Pharmacy Council is currently finalizing a standard operating procedure to ensure that pharmacies provide appropriate information for use of the kits.

"We encourage members of the public to use the services of the Department of Health's call centre should they have any questions about the use of the kits or interpretation of results," said Ramaphosa, adding that the government continues to provide counselling services at all public HIV testing sites.

President Jacob Zuma is leading a scaled-up counselling and testing campaign aimed at preventing HIV/AIDS.

Zuma repeatedly calls on South Africans to take the HIV test regularly so that they can be able to receive treatment if needed.

With a population of about 53 million, South Africa has an estimated 6.4 million people living with HIV/AIDS, the highest prevalence in the world. Enditem