HIV: Current Research
Open Access

Advancing the Prevention of Initiation and Antiretroviral Therapy in HIV- Infected Children

Navars Shi^{* *}Correspondence: Navars Shi, Department of Science and Humanities, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, Email:

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Description

HIV is a global health crisis that has affected millions of lives. Children affected by HIV face unique challenges. Many of them acquire the virus through mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy and childbirth. Without proper medical treatment, these children have a higher risk of becoming infected and experiencing negative health outcomes. Moreover, children affected by HIV often face discrimination and social isolation. Health problems brought on by weakened immunity emerge as HIV in children. Children with HIV are more susceptible to diseases like pneumonia and meningitis because they are less able to fight off disease causing microorganisms. Additionally, they have an increased chance of getting cancer. These issues can negatively impact their mental health, education, and social development. It is necessary to manage these barriers and provide a supportive environment that fosters their well-being and full participation in society.

Prevention strategies are also critical in reducing the number of children affected by HIV. This includes promoting HIV testing and counselling for pregnant women, providing antiretroviral prophylaxis during pregnancy and ensuring access to safe infant feeding practices.

International organizations, governments and NGOs are working together to address the unique challenges faced by children affected by HIV. They focus on improving access to HIV testing, treatment, care, and support services tailored to the needs of children. Efforts are also directed towards strengthening health systems, advocating for policies that protect children's rights, and combating stigma and discrimination.

The unique challenges faced by children living with HIV

Children living with HIV face a distinct set of challenges that require special attention and care. One of the primary obstacles is the vertical transmission of the virus from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission programs, including antiretroviral therapy for pregnant women and infant prophylaxis, are crucial in reducing this transmission risk. However, the lack of routine HIV testing for infants and young children in many regions hinders early diagnosis. Delays in diagnosis not only affect individual health outcomes but also increase the risk of onward transmission and limit the opportunity for early medical treatment strategies.

Pediatric formulations of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) have improved over the years, making it easier for children to receive to their medications. Adequate funding, health system strengthening, and global collaboration are essential to ensuring that no child is left behind in the fight against HIV.

Comprehensive strategies for safeguarding children's well-being

Early diagnosis and treatment: Ensuring routine HIV testing for infants and young children, strengthening healthcare systems and providing affordable and accessible pediatric antiretroviral therapy.

Preventing mother-to-child transmission: Expanding prevention programs, promoting prenatal care, and implementing interventions to reduce transmission risk during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

Psychosocial support: Establishing age-appropriate counselling services, support groups and educational programs to address the unique emotional and social needs of children living with HIV.

Education and awareness: Implementing comprehensive sexual education programs in schools, promoting HIV prevention strategies.

Integrated care: Facilitating collaboration between HIV care providers, pediatricians, social workers, and educators to ensure alternative medicine approach to children's well-being.

Research and innovation: Investing in research to develop improved pediatric formulations, diagnostics and prevention strategies specialized to the needs of children living with HIV.