Kampala, (UG);- Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health in partnership with USAID have embarked on a move to rollout #CheckNow, the the revolutionary HIV self-testing kit in over 146 districts across the country in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bridging the gap in HIV testing and provide a simple, private, and stigma-free solution for individuals to take charge of their health.
The launch, scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday May 09, 2024, is expected to be presided over by President Yoweri Museveni at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala.
The CheckNOW HIV Self-Test is a rapid, point-of-care test that detects antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2 in a fingerstick whole blood sample. This innovative technology allows users to perform the test in the privacy of their own homes, empowering them to know their HIV status without the fear of stigma or discrimination that may have previously deterred them from seeking healthcare services.
“The goal of this initiative is to reach the underserved populations and key populations across the country, ensuring that everyone has access to accurate and reliable HIV testing,” Ms Christine Katushabe, the Senior Program Officer (SPO) for HIV at the Ministry of Health told journalists during Monday’s breakfast meeting at the Ministry Headquarters in Kamlala.
By making HIV testing more accessible and private, Ms Katushabe says the ministry and stakeholders “hope to increase the number of people who know their status and take the necessary steps to either access treatment or prevention services.”
One of the key advantages of the CheckNOW kit is the speed of the testing process. Results can be obtained in as little as 15-20 minutes, a significant improvement over the longer wait times associated with traditional testing methods.
Additionally, the risk of errors is significantly lower compared to oral-based HIV tests, providing users with greater confidence in the accuracy of their results.
“People have a higher level of trust in the CheckNOW kit compared to the oral-based tests,” Ms Katushabe emphasized, adding that; “This increased trust, combined with the privacy and convenience of self-testing, will be crucial in encouraging more individuals”.
Self-testing has been hailed as a critical entry point for HIV prevention services, as individuals who test negative can be immediately linked to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and other prevention services. For those who test positive, the self-test serves as the first step in accessing treatment.
Since millions of people in Uganda are living with HIV, and many are unaware of their status this initiative is a game-changer, empowering individuals to take control of their health and ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The launch of the CheckNOW HIV Self-Test kit is part of a broader effort by the government to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the country. By making testing more accessible and reducing the stigma associated with it, the hope is that more people will be encouraged to know their status and take the necessary steps to protect their health and the health of their communities.
DailyExpress understands that in the coming months, the CheckNOW HIV Self-Test will be rolled out across 146 districts nationwide, with a focus on reaching the most vulnerable and underserved populations.
This comprehensive effort, backed by the collective resources and expertise of USAID, the Ministry of Health, and local authorities, holds the promise of a future where HIV testing is no longer a barrier, but a gateway to a healthier, more resilient Uganda.
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