National HIV Testing Guidelines 2016

Early detection and appropriate interventions improves survival and quality of life of people infected with HIV and reduces the risk of onward transmission. However, a significant proportion of people living with HIV, remain undiagnosed until they become symptomatic, therefore presenting late for treatment. Late presentation diminishes the impact of ART on morbidity and survival and delays adoption of preventive measures by persons living with HIV and their partners.

The national HIV testing guidelines is the principal document that sets out the objectives, principles and arrangements for HIV testing in Sri Lanka. These guidelines are based on the National AIDS Policy and National HIV Strategic Plan 2013-2017. They provide guidance on HIV testing in the country. This ensure quality screening and diagnostic testing become readily accessible, with the aim of identifying HIV infection early so that risk reduction and timely initiation of treatment of infected individuals will be facilitated. Aiming to address this, HIV testing is scaled up with protection from stigma and discrimination in variety of settings. In all settings under which people undergo HIV testing steps are taken to protect human rights and ethical principles.