Utilizing Alternative Testing Technology for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in the COVID era

Warmbrunn, Isabella; Green-Jones, Monique; Outlaw, Angulique Y.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: With the onset of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, in-person human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing is no longer easily accessible. Therefore, alternative testing technologies must be considered and implemented on a large scale to continue prevention efforts. This review seeks to describe the benefits of utilizing at-home HIV testing technologies, traditionally deemed an alternative form of testing. RECENT FINDINGS: Utilizing at-home testing technology during the COVID-19 pandemic overcomes novel and previously identified barriers to HIV testing. SUMMARY: Ensuring access to HIV testing is imperative to long-term prevention goals. With the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative in the USA targeting achievement by 2030, obstacles to HIV testing must be addressed to ensure its success. Implementing alternative testing technology more broadly allows for continued prevention efforts for HIV in light of COVID era restrictions.