Testing kits that can detect HIV and Syphilis infections using finger prick blood or serum will be piloted in Tonga, Samoa, Kiribati, Palau and Vanuatu, over the next three months starting in September.

The kits cut down the time it takes to process results and will be especially useful in remote places that don’t have laboratories.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Dr Ma’ake Tupou facilitated training on the use of the test kits for medical officers and nurses earlier this week.

He said that currently, tests for HIV and Syphilis are done separately and carried out on laboratory-based platforms. The samples are further analyzed in a lab extending the time for patients to receive results.

“This newly introduced method will process two tests using this one kit. Patients will get their results in 15-20 minutes.”

Tongan hospitals

“There are four major hospitals in Tonga. These hospitals have labs but with places like the Niuas who do not have one, this kit will be very useful,” he said.

The test kits will be used for routine health tests such as antenatal, employee, and travel health tests, and will be available for anyone that needs HIV and Syphilis screening.

Those trained in the use of the new test kit include medical officers, nurses, lab technicians, and representatives from the Tonga Leitis Association and Tonga Family Health Association.

If the pilot test is successful, an additional six Pacific Island countries will use the kits.

The testing kit project is funded under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the Multi-Country Western Pacific Programme to improve public health responses to sexually transmitted infections.

Sexual contact

HIV or human immunodeficiency virus is spread by sexual contact. It attacks the immune system and if untreated will completely destroy it. AIDS occurs at the final stage of the HIV infection. While there is no cure for HIV, people who are infected can live long and healthy lives with the right treatment.

Syphilis is a highly contagious disease spread by sexual contact. It develops in stages, first as a sore on the genitals, rectum or mouth; second as a rash and the final stage that may occur years later could result in damage to the brain, nerves, eyes or heart. If not treated, it can cause major health problems.