Early HIV testing, elimination of vertical transmission, and addressing social and structural barriers in action plans
This initiative is a step towards ensuring that every child living with HIV has access to life-saving treatment and that mothers living with HIV can have HIV-free babies. Photo: iStock
Ministers and representatives from 12 African countries have developed a plan to end childhood acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) by 2030 through early detection, treatment and prevention programmes.
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS. There is currently no effective treatment. Once infected with HIV, it lasts for life. But with good medical care, HIV can be controlled.
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of Global Alliance to End Childhood AIDS will work to accelerate progress over the next seven years to ensure we meet our 2030 goals.
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) press note, the goals were first set at a meeting with representatives of the continent’s 12 countries gathered in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
of dar es salaam declaration Ending AIDS in children was unanimously approved. This initiative is a step towards ensuring that every child living with HIV has access to life-saving treatment and that a mother living with HIV can have her HIV-free baby.
Countries with high HIV prevalence, including Angola, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe, joined the alliance in phase one.
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Currently, one child dies from AIDS-related causes every five minutes worldwide. Only half (52%) of children living with HIV receive life-saving treatment, and 76% of her adults lag far behind adults on antiretroviral drugs.
This work revolves around four pillars:
- Early detection and optimal treatment and care for infants, children and adolescents.
- Close the treatment gap for pregnant and lactating women living with HIV to eliminate vertical transmission.
- Prevent new HIV infections among pregnant and lactating adolescent girls and women.
- Address social and structural barriers to rights, gender equality and access to services.
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