Is a protocol required for HIV recent infection surveillance?

Yes. A generic protocol template for HIV recent infection surveillance is available for countries to adapt to guide implementation and to use for required review and approval by the host country government, CDC, DOD, and other partner institutions. Protocols may be deemed non-research public health surveillance, depending on scope, objectives, design and procedures. Host country local institutional review board (IRB) review may be desirable or necessary. Country teams are encouraged to submit their protocols to the local IRB at least 6 months prior to planned implementation to ensure there is sufficient time to obtain necessary approvals before the activity begins.