Communication activities boosted to raise public awareness of the importance of early treatment for HIV-infected mothers – Illustrative image (Source: VNA)HIV transmission fell to 3.6 percent in the first half of 2017, showing
Vietnam’s preventive measures are proving effective.
According to the Department of
Prevention and Control under the Health Ministry, in the period, only 20 out of
561 babies whose mothers were treated with antiretroviral (ARV) drugs tested
positive to HIV.
Studies indicate that 97 out 100 babies
whose mothers use ARV drugs in early pregnancy do not contract the virus, while
the number is 50-75 babies if their mothers do not receive ARV therapy or have
interrupted treatment.
Therefore, the department has coordinated
with the Maternal and Child Health Department to intensify mother-to-child HIV
transmission preventive measures, especially offering HIV tests for expectant mothers.
Communication activities have also been
boosted to raise public awareness of the importance of early treatment for
HIV-infected mothers.-VNA
Source: VietnamPlus
