Under the National AIDS Control Programme Phase V (NACP V, 2021–2026), which strategic shift differentiates it from NACP IV regarding HIV testing?
- A Replacement of ELISA with rapid antigen-antibody combination tests at all ICTC
- B Adoption of 'Test and Treat' policy — ART initiated regardless of CD4 count for all diagnosed HIV-positive individuals ✓
- C Mandatory routine HIV testing for all hospital admissions above age 15
- D Discontinuation of provider-initiated testing and counselling (PITC)
Explanation
NACP V adopted the WHO 'Test and Treat' (T&T) strategy, extending from the NACP IV amendment of 2017: ART is initiated for ALL persons living with HIV (PLHIV) immediately upon diagnosis, irrespective of CD4 count or clinical stage, following the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. Prior guidelines withheld ART until CD4 fell below 350 or 500 cells/μL. PITC (option D) remains a cornerstone and is not discontinued. Combination antigen-antibody tests are used at some high-volume sites but ELISA remains central. Mandatory routine testing for all hospital admissions (option C) is not part of current Indian NACP policy.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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