WHO is convening a Guideline Development Group (GDG) to create evidence-based recommendations on multiplex testing, establishing essential principles for integrated testing and reviewing the latest evidence on HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Timely and accurate diagnostic testing is critical for the prevention, detection, and management of these infections, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
As global health systems shift toward integrated, people-centred service delivery, multiplex testing has emerged as a promising approach to increase efficiency, broaden testing coverage across diseases, and improve cost-effectiveness. Multiplex testing uses a single sample and assay or platform to detect multiple infections simultaneously.
"This is the first guideline to incorporate latest evidence and implementation that explicitly addresses multiplex testing." While the primary focus is on HIV, viral hepatitis, and STIs, the guidance will outline core principles for integration to maximize public health impact and guide future multi-disease testing strategies.
The GDG will meet virtually, including a session scheduled for 4–5 November 2025. These meetings aim to provide recommendations for multiplex testing by providers and self-testers, establish key principles, and address integration strategies while prioritizing limited resources for public health impact.
In line with WHO procedures for guideline development, GDG members are drawn from all WHO regions and serve in their individual capacities rather than representing organizations. Members were selected based on technical expertise, experience as end-users (e.g., programme managers, healthcare providers), and representation of affected communities. Members do not receive financial compensation.
To promote transparency and inclusivity, WHO invites the public and interested organizations to review the GDG members’ biographies.