As health officials step up efforts to scale up HIV testing, people are encouraged to use the KNOW4SURE.LK online platform to access HIV prevention and testing services, including self-testing for HIV and discreetly ordering condoms and lubricants.Consultant Venereologist Dr. Vino Dharmakulasinghe of the National STD/AIDS Control Program (NSACP) told Daily Mirror the platform provides a convenient and confidential way for people to access HIV-related services, particularly those who may be reluctant to visit a clinic.She said users can assess their risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), access HIV self-testing services, locate nearby testing centres and make appointments for HIV screening.“People can use the platform confidentially to find out their HIV risk and access testing services. We encourage more people to use this service so that we can increase HIV testing and identify infections at an early stage,” Dr. Dharmakulasinghe said.The platform also allows users to order condoms and lubricants, as well as HIV test kits, providing a discreet way to access essential HIV prevention and testing products.

Users can reserve HIV screening services at government clinics or selected private practitioners. HIV testing at government clinics is provided free of charge, while a nominal fee may apply at private facilities.Dr. Dharmakulasinghe said the platform is particularly important as many people from high-risk and vulnerable populations now meet partners through social media platforms and dating applications, but may not be connected to conventional HIV prevention, testing and treatment services.KNOW4SURE was developed by the NSACP in collaboration with the LINKAGES Sri Lanka project, with support from USAID and PEPFAR, to help bridge this gap.

The platform is designed to protect users’ privacy. Information collected is used to guide users towards appropriate services and for programme purposes, while the programme says users’ confidentiality and anonymity are maintained.People seeking advice on sexual health or HIV-related services can also contact a trained outreach worker through the KNOW4SURE service on 070 647 7044.