Successful Implementation of Perinatal HIV Prevention Guidelines

Abstract:
In 1994 zidovudine (ZDV) was demonstrated to substantially reduce perinatal transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Guidelines regarding the use of ZDV to reduce transmission and regarding counseling and voluntary testing of pregnant women were issued in 1994 and 1995, respectively. Varies surveillance methods were used to evaluate the implementation of these guidelines and to understand reasons for continues perinatal transmission of HIV. From 1993 to 1996, the proportion of HIV-infected women with diagnosis before delivery increased from 70% to 80%. The proportion of women with a diagnosis who received ZDV prenatally increased from 27% to 83% and intrapartum, 6% to 75%; for neonates, the increase was from 8% to 77%. Overall, 14% of women received no or only one prenatal care visit. A total of 36% of women who used illicit drugs during pregnancy had not had prenatal care. Of the children who received any ZDV, 8% were infected compared with 16% of those who received no ZDV. ZDV, used for treating pregnant HIV-infected women, has been rapidly adopted in clinical practice and has reduced the transmission of HIV. Continued progress is needed in the following areas: increases in the proportion of women who receive prenatal care and an HIV diagnosis; and implementation of rapid testing methods or rapid turnaround tests.

Author(s): Wortley, Pascale M., M.D., M.P.H., Lindegren, Ma L., M.D., Fleming, Pa L., Ph.D., M.S.

Publication: MMWR May 11 / 50(RR06); 15-28


Date Published: 5/11/2001

Pages: 12

Comments:
This piece can be found on the CDC MMWR Website at: www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5006a2.htm

Location Code: 14165