Health Canada is once again reminding Canadians that there are no home-based HIV test kits approved for use in Canada.
The health agency issued the reminder as it announced that it has asked a Toronto-based company, Accu-Metrics, to stop advertising and selling their unauthorized HIV home test kits.
"The Accu-HIV 1 & 2 Saliva Test, or any other HIV home test kits, have not been evaluated by Health Canada for safety and effectiveness," the agency said.
It is illegal to advertise or sell unlicensed medical devices in Canada.
Accu-Metrics has decided to comply with Health Canada's instructions to stop selling the test kit to Canadians via their website.
Unlicensed HIV test kits might provide users with false test results, giving infected users a false sense of security or needlessly worrying uninfected users.
Those used the Accu-HIV 1 & 2 Saliva Test should also consult their doctor to find out how to get proper testing.
Consumers who want more information about this advisory can contact Health Canada's Public Enquiries Line at 613-957-2991, or toll free at 1-866-225-0709.
There are no HIV test kits that have been authorized for sale for home use in Canada.
Anyone who is concerned about their HIV status should speak to their doctor or contact a public health nurse. The test is done using a blood sample, not a saliva sample, and many sites offer anonymous testing.
To locate a testing centre in your community, including anonymous test sites, call your provincial or territorial HIV/AIDS hotline. You can find a list of the .
