AttoSure is the new name of Claritest. Read more here.
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Drug and alcohol testing when patient safety is paramount.
- Laboratory Services
Secondary validation for “non-negatives” - Point of Care Testing
Urine and oral fluid tests to administer at your location. - Sample Collection Services
Work with our experienced team, anywhere in the UK. - Breath Alcohol Testing
Immediate results for alcohol consumption. - Blood Borne Virus
Screen for HIV, HBsAg and Hepatitis C. - Training
Train with our team, test with confidence.
Drug and alcohol testing where employee and public safety is concerned.
Featured Product
The Barrel Test
The Barrel Test is a trusted method of oral fluid testing for detection of drugs of abuse.
Learn MoreFeatured Product
The Barrel Test
The Barrel Test is a trusted method of oral fluid testing for detection of drugs of abuse.
Learn MoreWhat is a Blood-Borne Virus?
Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) are a major concern in many communities, particularly among vulnerable populations such as those experiencing homelessness, men who have sex with men (MSM), and individuals in drug treatment programs where needle-sharing is common. The three primary blood-borne viruses we focus on are HIV, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV).
A blood-borne virus is a virus that can be transmitted through blood, typically via sexual contact, shared needles, or contact with infected bodily fluids. These viruses pose significant health risks and can be life-threatening if not managed correctly.
The Key Players: HIV, HBV, and HCV
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HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): Though incurable, HIV treatment has advanced significantly, allowing individuals to live long and healthy lives.
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Hepatitis B (HBV): Similar to HIV, treatments for HBV have improved, but it remains a chronic condition. Explore our rapid HBV blood test here.
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Hepatitis C (HCV): Among the three, HCV treatment has seen the most progress. Today, HCV is curable in most cases with much less invasive treatments than in the past, making the HCV virus test invaluable.
Testing Options for Blood-Borne Viruses
Testing for blood-borne viruses has evolved significantly, making it more accessible and less invasive. Here are the three main methods:
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Dry Blood Spot Testing (DBST): A convenient method where a finger stick is used to place blood spots on a card, which is then sent to a lab for screening.
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Rapid Testing: Rapid tests provide instant results, usually within 15 minutes. This is crucial for high-risk populations who may not be easily accessible for follow-up.
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Capillary and Venous Blood Testing: These are more traditional forms of testing, involving a blood sample drawn from a vein or via a finger prick.
Choosing the Right Test
The right testing method depends on the organisation and the community being served. Rapid tests are popular in environments where the population is transient or difficult to follow up with, such as homeless shelters. In other settings, such as sexual health clinics or prisons, organisations may opt for both rapid and dry blood spot tests to screen for viruses and confirm results in the lab if necessary.
Testing is crucial for eliminating blood-borne viruses. With the UK aiming to eradicate hepatitis C by 2030—and possibly even by 2025—there's a growing demand for effective, accessible testing solutions.
To request a quote for Rapid BBV tests, including hiv screening test kit and HCV blood test head here.