How Do We Break the Plateau We See in Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission?

Overview

With optimal access to antiretroviral formulations, a pregnant HIV-positive woman has a very minimal risk of transmitting HIV to her infant through pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. HIV infection rates remain high in some countries, particularly among women of reproductive age, and access to ARVs is not a guarantee. ARV access to prevent vertical transmission is further strained in some settings due to social distancing guidelines in place for COVID-19.

In this April 27, 2021 webinar, we discussed current trends in mother-to-child HIV transmission and prevention access, as well as gains, and gains lost over the last year. We also discussed novel strategies and innovations that could turn the tide on a worrying trend. Our agenda included voices from across the field: partners, leaders, experts, field-based staff, and a beneficiary of prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission services.

Agenda:

• Opening remarks: Chip Lyons, EGPAF President and CEO
• Following the data/latest MTCT research: Dorothy Mbori-Ngacha, UNICEF HIV Specialist
• The MTCT plateau in DRC: Dr. Vicky Ilunja, EGPAF Technical Director, DRC
• Global innovations strengthening PMTCT: Dr. Lynne Mofenson, EGPAF Sr Research Advisor
• Learnings from Eswatini around MTCT success, Dr. Christopher Makwindi
• The PMTCT journey, a client experience: Dee Mphafi, EGPAF-Lesotho Youth Advisor
• Q&A, moderated by Dr. Laura Guay, EGPAF VP Research