What are the routes of transmission for children infected with HIV/AIDS?
Most HIV infection in children occurs through mother to Child transmission (MTCT). This can occur during pregnancy, at the time of birth or through breastfeeding. In developing countries, approximately one in every three children born to an HIV positive mother is infected with HIV. In developed countries, less than one Child in fifty born to an HIV positive mother is infected. This is because of differences in health practices including delivery by Caesarean Section, treatment with antiretroviral drugs and safe alternatives to breastfeeding. Children may also be infected with HIV through sex and unsafe health practices. Sexual spread of HIV is most common in older children/young people but can occur in younger children through sexual abuse. Unsafe health practices include use of non-sterile needles and unsafe blood products. These practices may also occur in the traditional health sector and include activities such as circumcision and ear piercing.
