Global Advanced Research Journal of Microbiology (GARJM) ISSN: 2315-5116
December 2015, Vol. 11(4), pp. 130-131
Copyright © 2015 Global Advanced Research Journals

Full Length Research Paper

HIV in Pregnant Women and Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission in Delta State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Jecinta Oghenesuvwe Ken-Jabin

BSc (Biomedical Science), Delta State University, Nigeria.
Senior Biomedical Scientist at Delta State Local Government Primary Health Care Authority, Nigeria.
Trained at University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding Author E-mail: jecintaken@gmail.com

Accepted 12 October, 2015 

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where maternal HIV infections contribute substantially to morbidity and mortality. Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) is a major route of HIV infection in children. According to the Nigeria National HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS, 2018), Delta State reported an HIV prevalence of 1.9%, with women of reproductive age disproportionately affected. During my time working in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in 2009 as a student trainee, I observed many married pregnant women infected with HIV/AIDS and numerous newborns already HIV-positive. Later, while working with the Delta State Local Government between 2012–2014 in rural communities of Ughelli North, I witnessed alarming rates of HIV in very young pregnant women, frequent maternal deaths, and cases of lost pregnancies due to the virus. Despite government efforts, including Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programs, challenges remain in uptake and adherence, particularly in rural and resource-limited areas.

Keywords: HIV, Pregnancy, PMTCT, Delta State, Nigeria.

References

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