Legal, ethical and counselling issues related to HIV testing of children

These guidelines deal with the legal rights of children undergoing HIV testing. They explain in simple terms the legal and policy obligations relating to HIV testing. They also describe how healthcare providers and others can ensure that HIV testing of children takes place in a way that protects and promotes their rights. The sections give more detail about:

 when children may be tested for HIV;
 obtaining informed consent from children or the adult responsible for them;
 maintaining confidentiality regarding the outcomes of HIV testing; and
 reporting to the relevant authorities children who are identified during the testing process as being in need of care
and protection.