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Human Immunodeficiency Virus (view source)
Revision as of 02:44, March 30, 2007
, 02:44, March 30, 2007→Transmission
HIV is primarily spread by sexual contact and intravenous drug use. Most early infections in the US were via homosexual sex, and to a lesser extent via intravenous drug use and blood transfusions; most current infections in the world are via heterosexual contact and vertical transmission from mother to child. Mothers infected with HIV transmit the virus to their baby ''in utero'', during childbirth, or via breastfeeding. Mother-to-child transmission can be significantly reduced by the proper use of antiretroviral agents.
HIV is primarily spread by sexual contact and intravenous drug use. Most early infections in the US were via homosexual sex, and to a lesser extent via intravenous drug use and blood transfusions; most current infections in the world are via heterosexual contact and vertical transmission from mother to child. Mothers infected with HIV transmit the virus to their baby ''in utero'', during childbirth. Mother-to-child transmission can be significantly reduced by the proper use of antiretroviral agents.
Until recently, it was thought that breastfeeding increased the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child. However, research in KwaZulu Natal <ref>''The Lancet'', March 30th 2007</ref> showed that babies of mothers with HIV who receive a mixture of milk and solid foods are 11 times more likely to become infected than those who are exclusively breastfed. Those given formula milk as well as breast milk are nearly twice as likely to become HIV positive. Even in countries with high HIV prevalence, it is calculated that exclusive breastfeeding could prevent 13% of deaths in children under five years-old.
The KwaZulu Natal study involved around 2,700 babies born between 2001 and 2005. Major efforts were made to encourage and support women in breastfeeding by sending counsellors to their homes twice a week. The success of the strategy surprised the researchers. The authors say exclusive breastfeeding "ordinarily protects the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, which thereby presents a more effective barrier to HIV".
Less commonly, contact with infected blood causes HIV transmission. This can occur in health care providers (HCPs) or others exposed to infectious bodily fluids. Transmission is facilitated by breaks in the skin or direct contact with mucosal tissues, such as those found in the eyes, mouth, anus, or vagina. Early in the epidemic, blood transfusions were a significant source of HIV transmission.
Less commonly, contact with infected blood causes HIV transmission. This can occur in health care providers (HCPs) or others exposed to infectious bodily fluids. Transmission is facilitated by breaks in the skin or direct contact with mucosal tissues, such as those found in the eyes, mouth, anus, or vagina. Early in the epidemic, blood transfusions were a significant source of HIV transmission.