Maldives has introduced nucleic acid testing (NAT), an advanced blood screening technology designed to detect blood-borne infections earlier and enhance the safety of blood transfusion services nationwide.

The new testing method can identify infections such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C during the early stages of infection, significantly reducing the window period compared with conventional blood screening methods and improving the safety of donated blood.

According to Malé City Group of Hospitals Chief Executive Officer Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, the introduction of NAT marks a major step forward in modernizing the country's blood services and bringing them in line with international standards.

The initiative also supports the Government's broader efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector and improve the quality and safety of medical services available to the public.

The enhanced screening system is expected to increase the reliability of blood transfusions by identifying potentially infectious donations earlier, helping protect both donors and recipients while strengthening the overall national blood supply.

The introduction of nucleic acid testing also contributes to the strategic goals outlined in the Maldives Thalassaemia Master Plan 2024–2034, which aims to improve blood services and ensure safer, more efficient transfusion practices across the country.