With cases rising, FDA authorizes first over-the-counter home syphilis test

The US Food and Drug Administration has authorized the first at-home over-the-counter test for syphilis. Previously, individuals suspected of having syphilis had to visit a doctor for testing. NOWDiagnostics, a biotech company, has developed a test that only requires 15 minutes and a drop of blood to determine if someone has syphilis. The FDA emphasizes that if a positive result is obtained at home, individuals should seek further confirmation from a doctor. The test is expected to be available in the second half of 2024 and will cost $29.98. The rise in syphilis cases in the United States, including among newborns, indicates the need for increased access to testing and treatment.