A recent Facebook post from a friend said, “I think I’m positive.” There was no need to ask what she meant. Since the virus that causes AIDS was discovered in 1985, the word ‘positive’ has come to have a double meaning that is anything but positive.

Despite huge breakthroughs in treatment, HIV remains incurable. Despite many years of prevention awareness and teaching, around 56,000 new cases are reported every year in this country alone.

This week the FDA approved a new HIV test that is far more sensitive than the current tests. Developed by Abbott Laboratories the test shows both HIV antigens and antibodies.  It shows positive results in the early “acute” infection, a stage when transmission is highest.  The new test is already being used in parts of Europe and will be available in the U.S. by next year.

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