Maldives has implemented nucleic acid testing (NAT), an advanced blood screening method aimed at identifying blood-borne infections sooner and improving the safety of blood transfusion services across the country.

The novel testing approach can detect infections like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C in the early infection stages, greatly shortening the window period relative to traditional blood screening techniques and enhancing the safety of blood donations.

Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, the Chief Executive Officer of Malé City Group of Hospitals, states that the implementation of NAT represents a significant advancement in the modernization of the nation's blood services, aligning them with global standards.

The initiative additionally aids the Government's wider efforts to enhance the healthcare sector and boost the quality and safety of medical services accessible to the public.

The improved screening system is anticipated to boost the safety of blood transfusions by detecting possibly infectious donations sooner, assisting in safeguarding both donors and recipients while reinforcing the nationwide blood supply.

The implementation of nucleic acid testing further supports the strategic objectives set forth in the Maldives Thalassaemia Master Plan 2024–2034, which seeks to enhance blood services and guarantee safer, more effective transfusion methods nationwide.