Chembio's HIV self-test kits to be sold in Europe

Chembio Diagnostics Inc. announced Wednesday that two European businesses will begin selling HIV self-test kits using the Medford company's technology.

The European products are based on Chembio's Clearview Complete test for HIV but will be sold under other names.

In Britain, the BioSURE HIV Self Test is the first of its kind and went on sale earlier this week. In France, the test will be sold under the autotest VIH name.

"The European HIV testing landscape is changing and our product is well suited for the self-testing segment, given its ability to provide simple, fast and reliable detection of antibodies to HIV," said John J. Sperzel, Chembio's chief executive.

He also said self testing could "ultimately play an important role in reducing the incidence of HIV."

The test uses a blood sample with the results known in 15 minutes.