WHO Recommends HIV Self-testing: Policy Brief

HIV self-testing should be offered as an additional approach to HIV testing services.

HIV self-testing (HIVST) is an empowering and innovative way to reach more people with HIV and help achieve the first of the United Nation’s 90–90–90 targets – for 90% of all people with HIV to know their status by 2020. Expanded use of HIVST can contribute to these global targets by reaching first-time testers, people with undiagnosed HIV or those at ongoing risk who are in need of frequent retesting.

HIV self-testing is a process in which a person collects his or her own specimen (oral fluid or blood) and then performs
an HIV test and interprets the result, often in a private setting, either alone or with someone he or she trusts.