The Oraquick HIV test is a quick and easy test that detects HIV antibodies in blood or saliva samples. It is recommended for regular testing, but a negative result does not necessarily mean the person is not infected. The test detects HIV-1 with approximately 99.6% accuracy and is widely available in many different sites.
Since HIV was first recognized in 1981, it has led to the deaths of more than 25 million people, making it one of the worst modern pandemics. Part of the problem with HIV is that it may take some time for symptoms to appear, and during that time it can be easily transferred to sexual partners. While various forms of protection can reduce the incidence of infection, none are absolutely perfect, making regular testing important for anyone with multiple sexual partners and a good idea for everyone. The Oraquick HIV test is a quick and easy test, intended to reduce the effort it takes to get tested, to inspire more people to stay tested regularly.
The standard HIV test is performed using two different modalities. First, an ELISA, or enzyme immunoassay, is done to screen for HIV antibodies. If these antibodies are detected, a follow-up Western blot test is done to examine the extent of the antigens present. Combining these two tests gives a very accurate indicator of the presence of HIV, with very few false negatives and false positives.
The Oraquick HIV test is one of a type of test known as rapid tests or point-of-care tests. These tests are intended more for regular checkups and rely heavily on the health care provider making a strong assessment of the person’s sexual or drug use history, as well as the test itself. Because antibodies may not reach detectable levels for months after infection, a negative Oraquick HIV test result does not necessarily mean that the person is not infected, it just means that they have not yet become infected. Consequently, regular use of the Oraquick HIV test is recommended.
Results can be obtained from the Oraquick HIV test in about twenty minutes. A sample of fluid, in the form of blood or saliva, is taken and mixed in a vial. The results are then read from a dip stick and show the presence or absence of HIV antibodies. An Oraquick HIV test can usually detect both HIV 1 and HIV 2 if it is present in the body. Most often, blood is collected for an Oraquick HIV test by pricking the finger with a fingertip or using venipuncture.
Clinical studies of the Oraquick HIV test have shown that it detects approximately 99.6% of people who are successfully infected with HIV-1 and 100% of people who are not properly infected with HIV-1. In the field, however, a slightly higher rate of false negatives and false positives is expected. When a positive result is shown, more intensive follow-up testing is recommended, to confirm the presence of HIV. The test has not been evaluated for its functionality in detecting HIV-2, but because HIV-2 is not widespread in the United States, regular screening for this type of HIV is still not being promoted.
Many different sites offer the Oraquick HIV test as part of a routine visit. Because it is so non-invasive and because results can be achieved while the patient waits, many people find it preferable to other tests. Although potentially slightly less accurate, the Oraquick HIV test is ideal for a first pass.
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