An international research trial to develop the first rapid point-of-care test for HIV, syphilis and herpes could have long-term implications for health care providers in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
The $1.39 million joint project between firms in British Columbia and India will see researchers test finger-stick technology over a two-year period on blood samples collected in India.
Should the trial prove successful and the device be approved by Health Canada local clinicians could be using the test in about five years.
Rick Galli, chief technical officer for bioLytical Laboratories, said the device is ideal for at-risk communities of people managing co-infections.
"By being able to do a single test and get three results in a matter of minutes compared to a number of days, as currently is the case, allows for intervention, prevention of transmission, and certainly for the benefits of the patients, early treatment."
Still, Galli understands no matter what the potential benefits of the test are time will be needed for it to be approved.
