FDA Approves Over-The-Counter HIV Test
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The FDA approved the first over-the-counter HIV test that gives immediate results Tuesday.
The OraQuick test detects HIV using a mouth swab within 20 to 40 minutes.
The FDA said a positive result does not necessarily mean an individual is infected but that additional testing should be done.
The Administration said the test could identify large numbers of undiagnosed HIV infections.
City officials said an estimated 20,000 residents are not aware they are infected.
According to federal officials, about 50,000 new infections occur every year across the country.
The FDA has approved other HIV tests to be used at home but they have to be sent to a laboratory for results.