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The α-test: Rapid Cell-free CD4 Enumeration Using Whole Saliva
Published on: May 16, 2012
Saliva-based HIV testing among secondary school students in Tanzania using the OraQuick rapid HIV1/2 antibody assay
Carol Holm-Hansen1, Balthazar Nyombi, Mramba Nyindo
1Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division of Infectious Disease Control, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, NO-0403 Oslo, Norway. carol.holm-hansen@fhi.no
Abstract:
HIV prevalence and knowledge concerning HIV prevention among secondary school students in Tanzania was investigated. Approximately 50% of all secondary school students in Hai district and Moshi town were included in the study. Saliva samples were obtained using the OraQuick rapid HIV-1/2 antibody assay. Forty-one (1.0%) and 211 (5.5%) students at the rural and urban schools, respectively, tested positive for HIV antibodies in saliva. HIV knowledge and beliefs varied significantly. Noninvasive saliva sample collection for HIV testing was highly acceptable. HIV infection is considerably more widespread among students attending urban rather than rural schools in the population investigated.
