Nwoya Health Teams Deliver HIV-Free Babies Despite Major Obstacles

Health workers at Anaka General Hospital in Nwoya District are making strides in preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission. Through antiretroviral therapy, routine testing, and vigilant follow-up, they help HIV-positive mothers deliver uninfected babies.

One mother, facing anaemia and growth issues in her pregnancy due to her HIV drugs, underwent a caesarean at Lacor Hospital. Despite side effects, she adhered to treatment, guided by medical teams, and her baby was born HIV-free.

Dr Jolly Joe Lapat, a senior paediatrician at the hospital, explained their adherence to the Ministry of Health’s 95-95-95 strategy. Pregnant women receive mandatory HIV tests at first antenatal visits and lifelong ART for viral suppression. Community outreaches and a spoke-model with lower facilities ensure broad access to testing and care.

High-risk cases get special attention, with newborns starting prophylaxis immediately. A new early infant diagnosis unit tests babies at six weeks, confirms with DNA-PCR, and retests at 18 months. Negative results lead to discharge from the clinic.

Nationally, Uganda’s HIV prevalence is 4.9%, with paediatric infections dropping sharply since 2010. PMTCT coverage hits 100%, but new infections outpace deaths, per the 2025 Joint Aids Review. Retention and suppression rates lag due to complacency and poor follow-up.

Dr James Okello, acting district health officer, highlighted barriers like late antenatal attendance, stigma, long distances in areas such as Koch-lii and Gotapwoyo, and staffing shortages. Uganda Aids Commission’s Victor Rwengabo noted 4,700 child infections in 2024, blaming self-stigma and delayed care despite free services.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)