Every day, over 50 Filipinos are diagnosed with HIV. That’s more than 1,500 new cases each month—an alarming trend that highlights the urgent need for accessible and stigma-free testing.
The Department of Health projects that by 2030, over 500,000 Filipinos could be living with HIV, unless testing and prevention efforts dramatically improve.
On August 6, 2025, a major step was taken to confront this challenge. KonsultaMD, the country’s leading telehealth platform, signed a partnership with Southstar Drug and Faberco Life Sciences to launch the Mylan HIV Self Test, making HIV testing easier, more discreet, and more accessible than ever.
A Partnership for Urgent Action
The HIV epidemic in the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing in the Asia-Pacific region. Despite awareness campaigns, many Filipinos still avoid testing due to fear, stigma, and concerns about privacy.
“Healthcare must meet people where they are, with empathy, dignity, and urgency,” said Rina Tadiar, Head of Consumer at KonsultaMD.
“As the first telehealth app in the Philippines to offer HIV health services, KonsultaMD is making prevention and support more accessible, more compassionate, and more personal than ever. This is about making it easier to get tested, easier to seek help, and easier to feel safe doing so.”
Through this partnership, anyone can now order an FDA-approved HIV self-test kit from the KonsultaMD app. Kits are delivered discreetly to your home, allowing you to take the test in privacy and comfort.
Who Should Get Tested?
According to global health experts, everyone between the ages of 13 to 64 should get tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime. For those at higher risk, testing once a year is strongly advised.
You should consider testing if:
•You’re a man who has had sex with another man.
•You’ve exchanged sex for drugs or money.
•You’ve had anal or vaginal sex with someone who has HIV.
•You’ve been diagnosed or treated for another STI, hepatitis, or tuberculosis.
•You’ve had more than one sexual partner since your last test.
•You’ve shared needles or drug injection equipment.
•You’ve had sex with someone whose sexual history you don’t know.
Knowing your status is the first step in preventing transmission and protecting your health.
What Is the Mylan HIV Self Test?
The Mylan HIV Self Test, developed by Viatris, is a rapid diagnostic test designed for home use. It delivers results in 15 minutes with 99.8% sensitivity and specificity. The test is safe, convenient, and simple to use.
Here’s how to use it:
- Push the grey button to prick your finger with the built-in lancet.
- Fill the blood tube completely. If not full, squeeze your finger gently for more blood.
- Place the blood tube into the well of the test device.
- Add 4 drops of the provided fluid into the same well.
- Wait 15 minutes to read the result.
Interpreting Your Result
HIV Negative: One line appears at “C” (Control). Test again in 3 months if you remain at risk.
HIV Positive (Reactive): Two lines appear, even if faint. Proceed to a clinic for confirmatory testing.
Test Invalid: No line appears at “C.” Repeat the test with a new kit.
This is a screening test, not a definitive diagnosis, but it’s a crucial first step toward early detection.
How to Get the Kit
Ordering the Mylan HIV Self Test is as simple as buying everyday essentials online:
- Open the KonsultaMD app.
- Tap Pharmacy from the homepage.
- Search for “HIV self-testing kit.”
- Add to cart, enter your delivery details, and confirm payment.
The kit arrives in discreet packaging. For users with questions, KonsultaMD doctors trained in HIV 101 and counseling are available for consultations. The app also provides access to PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) guidance for individuals seeking preventive measures.
A Digital Health Revolution
The launch of the Mylan HIV Self Test through KonsultaMD’s platform reflects a broader mission: to create a future where every Filipino can manage their health without fear or stigma. By combining telehealth, discreet delivery, and educational support, KonsultaMD, Southstar Drug, and Faberco Life Sciences are making HIV prevention and awareness part of everyday healthcare.
“HIV is not something anyone should be afraid to talk about,” said Tadiar. “Through this initiative, we’re normalizing testing, breaking down stigma, and giving people the confidence to take control of their health.”
The timing of this partnership couldn’t be more critical. With cases rising rapidly among younger Filipinos—particularly those aged 15 to 34—the ability to test privately from home can change lives. Early detection means earlier treatment, better outcomes, and fewer transmissions.
By making testing as easy as opening an app, KonsultaMD and its partners are tackling one of the biggest barriers to HIV prevention: access.
The Bottom Line
The Mylan HIV Self Test is accurate, safe, and empowering. It’s designed for anyone who values their health and wants peace of mind—without the fear of judgment.
With just a few steps and a 15-minute wait, you can know your status and take action if needed. And now, thanks to KonsultaMD, ordering the test is as simple as ordering food delivery.
