FDA panel to consider do-it-yourself test.

The Associated Press
WFLS News

Date published: 11/3/2005

WASHINGTON (AP) - Advisers at the Food and Drug Administration today plan to consider the first HIV test that can be taken entirely at home.

The test is called OraQuick Advance by OraSure Technology.

A person takes the test by swabbing the inside of the mouth and then putting the swab in a vial of fluid that comes with the test. About 20 minutes later, the person gets the results.

The test is already available at doctor's offices and health clinics.

Critics are concerned about the psychological effects on a person who tests positive for HIV and doesn't have a doctor or counselor nearby to talk to.

OraSure says the test is more than 99% accurate but suggests people who test positive get a second opinion anyway.

(Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Date published: 11/3/2005