HIV diagnosis in children under 18 months is performed on children who are exposed to HIV (children born to HIV-infected mothers), children suspected of being infected with HIV or having clinical symptoms suggestive of HIV infection and have positive HIV antibody test results.

HIV testing is the basis for early diagnosis and treatment for people infected with HIV. In particular, HIV diagnosis in children over 18 months will help optimize the effectiveness of treatment and prevention programs. Similarly, HIV diagnosis in adults also helps bring high efficiency in treatment.