Blood samples in tubes to test for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), computer illustration. Image Credit: KTSDesign/Science Photo Library via Getty Images
Health The WorldDrastic Drop in HIV-Positive Babies, Thanks to This Global Plan
There has been a 50 percent reduction in new mother-to-child HIV transmission cases worldwide in recent years.
In 2011, the “Global Plan towards the Elimination of New HIV Infections among Children and Keeping their Mothers Alive” was introduced. Studies show that since the start of transmission prevention programs such as the Global Plan, 1.5 million deaths and 2.9 million HIV infections have been averted amongst pregnant women and children.
In 2010, there were 320,000 new HIV infections among children under the age of five. The number had decreased to 160,000 by 2021, following the Global HIV Plan. This decrease can be attributed in part to higher testing coverage as well as greater access to antiretroviral therapy in pregnant women afflicted with HIV.
