The partnership agreement, signed in December 2014, will enable the transfer of technology to strengthen the capacity of MSF-Holland and the NHL to perform viral load monitoring with a test developed by the French ANRS research agency. Viral load testing plays an essential role, monitoring the efficacy of antiretroviral treatment and thus ensuring that each patient is receiving proper and optimal care.
Fondation Mérieux is organizing and covering the costs of implementing this new technology and purchasing the necessary equipment. It will also provide training for the laboratory personnel on how to perform the new test.
MSF-Holland has been engaged in fighting HIV/AIDS in Myanmar for 20 years, caring for more than 35,000 patients, which represents about half of all HIV patients receiving treatment in the country.