Recruiting

Testing a fingerstick self-test for HIV and syphilis

Plain-English translation of NCT06716450 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated January 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing the Multiplo® TP/HIV Self-Test, a fingerstick blood test that people can use themselves to check for HIV and syphilis infections. Researchers want to see if the test is accurate, easy to use, and if the instructions are clear enough for everyday people to understand without training. The study also looks at whether having peers (people with lived experience) help with HIV and syphilis care improves outcomes for people experiencing homelessness in Toronto.

Right now, many people don't get tested for HIV and syphilis because they're worried about privacy, can't reach a clinic, or face barriers to care. Self-tests and peer-led support could make testing and treatment easier to access, especially for people experiencing homelessness who often face extra challenges getting healthcare.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are at least 18 years old
you speak, read, and write English or French
you are coming in for voluntary HIV and/or syphilis testing
you have never tested positive for HIV or syphilis (or had a negative test at least 3 months ago)
you are willing to provide a fingerstick blood sample and a regular blood draw for testing

You likely don't qualify if…

you have ever tested positive for HIV or syphilis at any time
you work as a doctor, nurse, or HIV counselor who performs testing
you have experience using rapid point-of-care tests on other people
you are already familiar with this specific self-test
you are unable to complete the visit because of intoxication, acute illness, or distress

What participation looks like

You'll come to the clinic and perform the fingerstick self-test by pricking your finger and reading the result yourself, while a trained observer watches and documents what you do. You'll also have a regular blood draw from your arm that gets sent to a lab for testing to compare with your self-test result. Some participants will be asked to interpret 10 practice tests with different results and fill out a short questionnaire about how easy the test was to use. You'll return two weeks later to get your official lab results and receive counseling and treatment if needed.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 11, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(3 sites)

Canada

Cool Aid Community Health Centre, Victoria, British Columbia

Hassle Free Clinic, Toronto, Ontario

Women's Health in Women's Hands, Toronto, Ontario