Despite significant strides in combating mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, Kenya continues to struggle with increasing rates, particularly in regions like Kilifi County. A recent study by researchers from the University of Nairobi highlights critical gaps in prevention efforts underscoring the need for interventions to combat this.
The study titled “Determinants of vertical transmission of HIV infection in Kilifi County, Kenya: a case control study,” identified several key factors contributing to ongoing HIV transmission from mothers to their infants. Failure to attend antenatal care, lack of antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy, non-disclosure of HIV status, and home deliveries were the key drivers associated with increased infant HIV infection.
According to this study which examined 183 mother-infant pairs in Kilifi, Kenya remains among the countries most affected by the HIV epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa. According to the 2024-2025 national HIV estimates, approximately 62,800 children aged 0- 14 years are living with HIV, underscoring the continued contribution of vertical transmission to the pediatric HIV burden.
HIV transmission from an infected mother to her child may occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Without effective interventions in place, the rate of mother-to-child transmission will continue to rise.
The study emphasizes that maternal ART uptake during pregnancy remains the most crucial protective factor against vertical transmission.
Furthermore, facility-based delivery is vital in lessening transmission risks since skilled delivery at health facilities facilitates safer obstetric practices and timely infant prophylaxis. Consistency in attending antenatal care was also encouraged.
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