Acceptability of Oral-fluid rapid HIV 1 and 2 antibody test among selected key populations in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Introduction: Oral-fluid rapid HIV 1 and 2 antibody test is recommended by WHO to be used as a “test for triage” to support expanding community-based HIV testing services among Key populations (KPs) for HIV infection such as Men who have sex with men (MSM), Beach boys (BB), Female sex workers (FSW) and Drug users (DUs) Objective: The aim of this study was to ascertain the acceptability of oral fluid rapid HIV 1/2 antibody test (OraQuick®) among key populations receiving services under the Global Fund HIV prevention project during 2013-2015 in Sri Lanka. Methods: Out of the total registered members of KPs (21,014), a purposive sample of 614 (MSM-185, BB-128, FSW-155, DU-146) was studied. Data collected by WHO certified community testers using three tools, i). interviewer administered questionnaire, ii) confidential oral fluid rapid HIV test and recording, iii), a self-administered feedback form. Results: Mean age of the sample was 34 years (Mdn=32.7 years). Males, females and transgender people were 68.9%, 30.6%, 0.5% respectively. Further, 40.7% were single, 36.5% married, 11.7% living together and 11% were separated. It seems that these groups prefer both community testing (49%) as well as outreach testing by STD staff (49%). However, going to an STD clinic was preferred only by 10%. Majority preferred oral-fluid testing (88%) and finger prick testing preferred by 10.2%. Majority expected test report just after the test (88.3%). The overall satisfaction of the oral-fluid rapid HIV test by KPs was MSM 97%, BB-99%, FSW-99%, DU-99%. Conclusions: Members of KP groups show high level of acceptability for the oral-fluid rapid HIV 1 and 2 antibody test. This type of “test for triage” approach can be used to improve the community based HIV testing in Sri Lanka.