Costa Rica has updated its national regulations to authorize the use of HIV self-testing kits as a public health tool, aiming to improve early detection and access to diagnosis. The new policy allows individuals to check their HIV status in a more accessible, private, and timely manner.
In 2024, Costa Rica reported 940 new HIV cases, most of them among young men aged 20 to 34. This trend highlights the need for wider access to testing services, particularly among sexually active populations, in order to prevent late diagnoses and reduce new infections.
Under the revised guidelines for 2026, 1,500 free HIV self-test kits will be distributed through six civil society organizations. The tests will also become available at public health services as well as pharmacies, clinics, and private laboratories across the country.
From today onward, people interested in using an HIV self-test can contact Fundación VIHDA or IRCA Casabierta. Tests will also be available next week at Transvida.
The self-tests can be used in safe spaces at a time chosen by the individual. There are two types: one that uses a saliva sample and another that requires a small blood sample from a finger prick. It is recommended that testing take place three months after potential exposure.
“Contar con un diagnóstico temprano de VIH permite acceder de manera oportuna al tratamiento y a la atención en los servicios de salud, lo que mejora la calidad de vida y reduce el riesgo de transmisión. En este sentido, las autopruebas de VIH brindan una opción adicional para que las personas tomen decisiones informadas sobre su salud, fortalezcan la prevención y accedan a atención cuando lo necesiten,” states the Ministry of Health.
