“During the past several years, [OraSure]\u00a0has been working to develop a lower cost version of our HIV self-test for use in certain countries. We now have a working model that has the same robust diagnostic capabilities of our US-approved test. Specifically, we are working with Population Services International — PSI — a leading global health organization, along with UNITAID, the World Health Organization and health officials from Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe to launch the UNITAID-PSI HIV Self-Testing in Africa, or “STAR”, project.<\/p>\n
As part of STAR, PSI is implementing a four-year pilot program funded by UNITAID which will utilize a self-test that we have specifically tailored for the developing marketplace. The purpose of the STAR project is to generate crucial information about how best to deliver HIV self-testing, how to generate demand for HIV testing in this manner and what the potential public health impact of self-testing will be. Initial research indicates that the rates of people accepting a self-testing approach in Africa are much higher than traditional HIV testing programs. Our test was chosen for the PSI pilot because of its quality, its ease of use, and the oral fluid testing option. We expect initial shipments to PSI during the first quarter of 2016.”<\/p>\n
-Doug Michels, OraSure – President, CEO<\/p>\n