Reliable Testing in the Fight Against AIDS and COVID-19

Roche and (RED) are partners on a shared mission to bring awareness to the importance of reliable diagnostics and testing in the global fight against COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS. Thanks to decades of investments in health systems and HIV/AIDS programs, countries across Africa have been far better equipped to respond to COVID-19.

However, COVID-19 has still placed a tremendous strain on critical health services—including HIV/AIDS programs—putting lives at risk. Together, we can continue to support these global health investments and emphasize the importance of diagnostic testing in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and supporting disease management in order to end AIDS by 2030.

We know we cannot win the fight against one pandemic without combatting the other.

As of June 2021, there have been over 180 million COVID-19 cases globally, with new cases surging in Africa and access to testing, treatment and vaccines remaining severely limited across the continent. COVID-19 has also severely disrupted access to critical health and prevention services, particularly among people living with HIV.

According to a 2021 survey conducted by the Global Fund across over 500 health facilities in 34 countries, HIV testing fell 41% compared to 2019 and only 45% of health facilities had enough essential PPE items, including masks, disinfectant, gloves, and hand sanitizer, for their health workers.

Whether it’s HIV or COVID-19, testing is a vital first step in providing the initial diagnosis for people to learn their status, assess treatment options, and provide ongoing monitoring. We are so proud to partner with Roche, a leader in HIV testing, in our commitment to ending both pandemics.