HARARE - As the fight to prevent mother to child transmission of HIV/Aids intensifies the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare is set to introduce antiretroviral treatment for pregnant women in some of the country clinics.This service will be facilitated by the use of point of care CD4 machines, as a pilot programme.
Speaking during the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation (EGPAF), the Minister of Health, Henry Madzorera, said:
“This will be introduced in a few learning sites in order to first asses the feasibility of Antiretroviral Treatment in Maternal Clinic Hospitals.”
Madzorera added that the introduction of such an initiative would help identify women who were in need ART for their health and would help reduce mother to child transmission of HIV.
“We also plan to disseminate a pre-tested national follow up register to strengthen the provision of care and support services to HIV exposed infants,” said Madzorera.
The minister said the government was grateful for the collaboration with EGPAF and other international partners.
“We know that we cannot win the battle against HIV and AIDS on our own.
Post published in: Analysis