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Rapid Screening of HIV Reverse Transcriptase and Integrase Inhibitors
Published on: April 9, 2014
Voluntary rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing in jails
Robin Macgowan1, Andrew Margolis, April Richardson-Moore
1Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. rmacgowan@cdc.gov
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
|August 29, 2007
Summary
Jail-based rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing identified many undiagnosed infections. This HIV testing program successfully connected inmates to care and prevention services, highlighting its importance in correctional facilities.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Disease Prevention
Background:
- Correctional facilities are critical settings for addressing public health issues, including infectious diseases.
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disproportionately affects certain populations, necessitating targeted screening efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement voluntary rapid HIV testing programs within correctional facilities.
- To identify undiagnosed HIV cases among incarcerated individuals.
- To facilitate linkage to care, treatment, and prevention services for HIV-positive inmates.
Main Methods:
- Four state health departments partnered with jails to offer stand-alone, voluntary rapid HIV testing.
- Inmates could self-request testing or be referred by medical staff.
- Reactive rapid tests were followed by confirmatory testing, medical evaluation, and linkage to services.
Main Results:
- Over 33,000 inmates were tested between December 2003 and May 2006, with near-universal result delivery.
- A total of 409 confirmed positive HIV results were obtained, identifying 269 previously undiagnosed cases (0.8%).
- New diagnoses were associated with race/ethnicity, reported risky behaviors, and notably, heterosexual contact.
Conclusions:
- Rapid HIV testing in jails is effective in identifying a significant number of previously undiagnosed HIV infections.
- Universal access to rapid HIV testing for all inmates is recommended, irrespective of reported risk behaviors.
