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Voice Over: What is HIV? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: The name of virus causing AIDS is called ‘Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)’. It specifically attacks CD4 cells in the immune system, making the body become more susceptible to certain infections and cancers. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: In the early stages of HIV infection, the body may not show any signs and symptoms. If the infection is left untreated, HIV will gradually destroy CD4 cells in the body resulting in a weakened immune system which can lead to certain cancers and opportunistic infections, ultimately progressing to AIDS. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: While there is yet no cure for HIV infection, there are oral antiretroviral treatment available that can effectively inhibit the viral replication. With early diagnosis and effective treatment, people living with HIV can lead healthy lives with good quality. Voice Over: How do I know if I am infected with HIV? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: HIV infection can be asymptomatic. Testing is the most effective diagnostic method to determine whether you are infected. Both blood test and rapid tests can accurately and effectively detect infection status. Anyone who has had sex but does not know his/her HIV status should consider getting tested for HIV at least once. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: All pregnant women are offered with HIV antibody testing during antenatal checkups. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: For pregnant women who have negative result in HIV test during antenatal checkups, they should use condom consistently and properly every time during sex to protect their fetuses. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: For pregnant women who are at higher risk of infection, such as having new or multiple sexual partners, or being diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections during pregnancy, they can discuss with healthcare workers to repeat HIV antibody test. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: For pregnant women whose partners are living with HIV and are already receiving antiretroviral treatment and consistently maintain an undetectable viral load, they do not need to worry about HIV transmission through sexual contact. Voice Over: What is the relationship between HIV and pregnancy? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Women living with HIV who are not yet receiving antiretroviral treatment may have the virus in their vaginal secretions, blood or breast milk. This might pose a risk of transmission to the baby during pregnancy or during breastfeeding. Once infected, the condition will require lifelong medication treatment. Voice Over: What should I do for myself and my baby if I have HIV infection? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: First of all, women living with HIV can give birth to healthy babies. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Antiretroviral treatment can effectively inhibit viral replication in the body and keep the viral load at undetectable levels. Use of medications can significantly reduce the transmission risk from 15-40% to less than 1%. Doctors will prescribe the appropriate treatment to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Doctors will closely monitor the treatment progress of the pregnant women and maintain close communication with obstetricians to determine the most appropriate delivery method. Voice Over: Any follow up is required after childbirth?
Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: After delivery, mothers should continue to take antiretroviral treatment and attend regular follow up. At follow-up appointment, you can discuss with your healthcare provider about your family planning such that they can offer tailored advice to meet your needs. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Breastfeeding should best be avoided. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Babies are required to complete a full course of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) prescribed by the doctor. The paediatrician will also arrange subsequent testing and follow-up. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Overall, antiretroviral treatment greatly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV to a minimum. With treatment, women living with HIV can give birth to healthy babies. Prevent mother-to-child transmission, start now. |