The HIV et AIDS and STI National Strategic Plan 2007-2011: a Paediatric Perspective

ABSTRACT

Objective. To analyse paediatric-specific goals and objectives in the HIV et AIDS and STI National Strategic Plan (NSP) for South Africa 2007 - 2011. Methods. This paper reviews key interventions described in the NSP regarding HIV prevention; management and treatment in children under 14 years of age. A general overview of the plan and its implications for the health system was previously published. Results. The NSP contains 4 priority areas; which were disaggregated into 19 goals. Each goal specifies several clearly worded objectives together with 5-year targets; and identifies lead agencies responsible for the achievement of these targets. Nine of the 19 goals (47) address interventions which mention or affect children directly. Paediatric-specific objectives encompass HIV prevention and treatment; legislation; social security; education; mental health; and developmental monitoring. If implemented comprehensively; it will appreciably improve the country's chances of achieving Millennium Development Goal 4; i.e. the reduction by two-thirds of the mortality rate among children under 5 years of age by 2015. However; substantial resources are required to achieve the goals and objectives of the NSP; including legal and policy amendments. Conclusion. The NSP is an important framework document; which should provide the necessary direction for addressing the paediatric HIV epidemic in South Africa