Abstract

AIDS: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) introduced a new HIV testing strategy. The Serologic Testing Algorithm for Recent HIV Seroconversions (STAHRS) strategy uses the newly developed detuned ELISA HIV antibody test. The new test can detect HIV antibodies after about 120 days; the standard test detects antibodies in the blood after 3-4 weeks. Using the new test can help determine if a person was recently infected or long ago. Public officials are hopeful that the new test will aid in the tracking of HIV by allowing them to focus on sexual partners encountered over a shorter period of time.