The first rapid oral fluid hepatitis C test for the US market, called OraQuick, may be available soon. OraSure Technologies, Inc., the test's developer, has recently filed for FDA approval. This process will probably take some time, but in the end, people with hepatitis C (especially those who aren't aware of their infection) will have a powerful test to use.
I wrote about the benefits of OraQuick, last week. There are many, but the most surprising is that it gives a result in 20 minutes. The scientists at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research determined it to be the best rapid HCV test for screening blood donors for HCV during battlefield conditions. Many of the same qualities that make it good on the battlefield will also make it good for peacetime use screening people in the community for hepatitis C. Often, good public health campaigns rely on a screening test that's quick and effective.
The rapid test will be a nice addition to the hepatitis c testing process. There is also a FDA-approved Hepatitis C Home Test that is available but rarely used. By ordering online the test is completely anonymous.