WHO to Develop First Global Guidelines on Multiplex Testing

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the establishment of a Guideline Development Group (GDG) to develop the first evidence-based recommendations on multiplex testing for HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The GDG's purpose is to generate foundational principles for integrated testing as well as address new scientific evidence and public health needs.

Multiplex testing is an approach using a single sample and assay to detect several infections at once, and is gaining attention as health systems shift progressively towards integrated people-centered service delivery options.

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By improving breadth of testing, efficiency and reducing costs, multiplex models of testing may transform prevention, detection, and management strategies particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where timely and accuracy in diagnostics remain a challenge.

GDG experts, healthcare providers, program managers and community representatives from affected populations throughout all WHO regions-and they are working as individuals. Their role is to make recommendations regarding provider- and self-testing, provide recommendations regarding integration, and give countries direction on how to prioritize limited resources for the greatest public health benefit. The members will not be compensated for their time, so the work will be clearly seen as a contribution to science, transparency and independence.

Members will be brought together virtually, but the group will meet on 4 and 5 November 2025. The WHO is also welcoming public input regarding the GDG member biographies, with feedback accepted until the 29 September 2025. This open process will accommodate multiple perspectives within the GDD, while also setting the direction for multi-disease diagnostics in the future.