HIV, where and how to get tested?

A few days before December 1, 2024, World AIDS Day, UNAIDS has just unveiled an annual report bringing hope. In 2023, the number of new HIV infections has reached its lowest level since the end of the 1980s. But the weak link in fighting the pandemic remains the screening of infected people who are unaware of it.

• The Trod (Rapid Diagnostic Orientation Test)HIV allows you to obtain a result in 30 minutes maximum. It is most often carried out on a drop of blood taken from the tip of the finger (but also from the fluid present on the gums). It detects anti-HIV-1 and anti-HIV-2 antibodies. A negative result reassures the person, provided that the last exposure to a risk was at least 3 months ago. In the event of a positive result, confirmation is necessary by a 4th generation Elisa blood test carried out in the laboratory.
• HIV self-tests are available in pharmacies, as well as in certain associations. They were sold at 65,000 units per year in France between 2022 and 2023, according to figures from Public Health France published on November 26, 2024.

Self-tests for screening for HIV infection are also Trod. A lancing device, a drop of blood, a dose of diluent and it is possible to carry out an AIDS virus screening test yourself. The self-test can detect anti-HIV antibodies in 30 minutes from a drop of blood or fluid secreted by gum tissue. Currently, only two HIV self-tests have CE marking. They are available in pharmacies and are not reimbursed by Health Insurance. Certain authorized HIV associations can, in certain cases, provide them free of charge.

• The My STI test (“HIVTest” system) until September 2024) allows you to be screened in medical biology laboratories. For socially insured people and their dependents, as well as for beneficiaries of Free Medical Assistance or AME, the HIV screening test is therefore possible without an appointment. It is covered 100%, with no advance costs and no prescription required. People wishing to remain anonymous will instead be directed by the laboratories to the free information, screening and diagnosis centers (CeGIDD).

This HIVTest device has met with some success, particularly among men and those aged 40-59. Despite a gradual start, its deployment accelerated in 2023 (figures published on November 26, 2024).

In practice, HIV serology carried out in the laboratory is based on a 4th generation Elisa test, taken from a blood sample.

In addition to pharmacies (for HIV self-tests) and medical biology laboratories, or even visiting your GP who can write a prescription and then go to the laboratory, there are places to get tested almost everywhere in France. :

• The free information, screening and diagnosis centers (CeGIDD) offer free screening for the AIDS virus but also hepatitis and sometimes other STIs to everyone. For HIV, the blood screenings offered are the 4th generation Elisa test and the Trod. To find out the nearest screening center, call Sida Info Service on 0 800 840 800 (confidential, anonymous and free call) or consult the CEGIDD list.
• Sexual Health Centers (formerly Family Planning and Education Centers) also offer free screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The directory is available on the government website.
• PMI (maternal and child protection) centers can also offer free screening for the AIDS virus, hepatitis and sometimes other STIs.
• Associations fighting against AIDS offer free testing of Trod (Rapid Diagnostic Orientation Test).
• PASS (permanent access to health care) and other services offering care to the most deprived, offer the possibility of doing the Elisa or Trod blood test.

Source: Weekly epidemiological bulletin, November 26, 2024, n°23-24 HIV infection: prevention, screening and treatment still relevant/ Published on November 26, 2024; Test for HIV on ameli.fr; UNAIDS report shows that upholding human rights is vital for ending the AIDS pandemic (November 2024); Sida Info Service website consulted on 11/27/24