HIV transmission from mothers to neonates

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. This is referred to as mother-to-child transmission (MTCT). HIV can be transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, labor and delivery, or breastfeeding. It is estimated that without any preventive interventions, approximately 15-30% of infants born to HIV-positive mothers will become infected with HIV. The risk of transmission can be greatly reduced if mothers are tested for HIV and prescribed antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy and labor. ART drugs can be used to reduce the amount of HIV in the mother’s blood, decreasing the likelihood of transmission. Additionally, mothers can avoid breastfeeding to further reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to their baby. It is important to note that the risk of transmission is not zero even if all preventive measures are taken. Therefore, it is important to test all babies born to HIV-positive mothers for HIV, regardless of whether or not preventive interventions have been taken.