PEOPLE NEWS, Education – Human Immunodeficiency Virus or better known as HIV can infect anyone, including children. This virus can weaken a child’s immune system and potentially develop Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Therefore, it is very important to detect HIV early in children to prevent the spread of the virus and start appropriate treatment.
Early detection of HIV in children can be done by carrying out an HIV test. This test can be done on newborns or children who are suspected of being infected with HIV through blood transfusions, HIV-infected mothers, or risky activities such as unprotected sex by parents or other sexual offences.
Early detection of HIV in children begins with an antibody test. However, because the baby’s HIV antibodies can follow the mother’s antibodies until the age of 18 months, an HIV test is first performed on the baby by means of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) examination to detect the HIV virus in the baby’s blood. If the initial test is repeated in an infant over 18 months of age and is positive to an antibody test, the infant is confirmed as HIV positive.
Once confirmed HIV positive, children with HIV should undergo treatment immediately. Treatment of HIV in children is different from treatment in adults and can include antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) that can help block the spread of the virus. ARV therapy can help keep a child’s immune system strong so they can maintain a healthy lifestyle and increase life expectancy.
In addition, early detection of HIV in children is also important to prevent the spread of the virus to other people. Children who are accidentally infected with HIV from their parents or through blood transfusion before an HIV test is found should be tested for HIV. Regular HIV testing is an important part of child health care, especially for people who are at high risk of contracting HIV.
In order to ensure children are free of HIV, it is important for parents and caregivers to avoid risky behavior and promote safe sex practices. It is important to avoid sharing needles or toothpicks, to avoid unprotected sex, and to use sterile medical instruments. Introducing children to a healthy lifestyle can also help boost their immune system and prevent HIV infection.
Health experts strongly recommend carrying out HIV tests on infants and children who are at risk of HIV infection in an effort to detect the virus early on in children before undergoing appropriate treatment. HIV testing in children can be done at health care facilities at an affordable cost. It is important for parents and caregivers to make sure their children are getting tested for HIV at the right age and keep their health free of HIV infection. By preventing the spread and treating HIV from early detection, children can live longer and healthier lives.
