The USA has approved a rapid saliva test for HIV which provides results within 20 minutes with 99 percent accuracy. US Dept. of Health and Human Services officials say the test could encourage more people to get tested as well as actually getting them the results. Current standard tests that take a week or more to get a result. With a rapid test, a patient can get an answer in just one clinic visit. Those who test positive can start treatment quickly and take steps to keep from spreading the virus. The new test involves wiping a swab along the gums and placing it into a liquid in the testing device. When HIV antibodies are detected, two reddish-purple lines appear on the device. The new test will initially be available only at hospitals and major clinics but could eventually be sold without prescription in pharmacies.