Determining the rate of mother-to-child human immunodeficiency virus transmission among pregnant women in An Giang province

Background: Determining the rate of pregnant women infected with human immunodeficiency (HIV) is one of the important factors for planning HIV prevention policies. This study aims to determine the rate of HIV infection among pregnant women in An Giang province in 2010.Methods: This is an epidemiological investigation study with analysis. The subjects are all pregnant women who are from An Giang and reside in An Giang province. They came for prenatal check-ups and gave birth at all medical facilities in communes, districts, and the province of An Giang from 01 January 2010 to 31 December 2010.Results: The rate of pregnant women infected with HIV in An Giang province is 0.29%, which is at an average level compared to the whole country. The occupation of pregnant women is related to HIV infection; compared to the occupation of civil servants, the occupation of trading has an 18.7 times higher risk of HIV infection (RR=18.7, p<0.01); the occupation of laborer has a 13 times higher risk (p<0.05); the occupation of farmer has a 6.3 times higher risk (p<0.05); the occupation of Housewife has a 4 times higher risk (p<0.05).Conclusions: The rate of pregnant women infected with HIV in An Giang province in 2010 was 0.29%. The occupational factor of pregnant women shows a correlation with HIV infection.

Guía clínica para la atención integral en salud de las personas con VIH / Clinical guide for comprehensive health care for people with HIV

La presente guía clínica se constituye en la actualización de la Guía clínica de atención integral en salud de las personas con VIH, de diciembre de 2014, la cual se hace necesaria para contribuir a los objetivos del Plan Estratégico Nacional Multisectorial (PENM) cuya misión es la de conducir acciones en la repuesta nacional al VIH y las ITS, garantizando el acceso a la atención de las personas con VIH e ITS con estándares internacionales, previniendo nuevas infecciones; propiciando un entorno de respeto a los derechos humanos, equidad de género y la diversidad sexual, encaminada hacia la eliminación del VIH en El Salvador, reducción de nuevas infecciones de VIH, reducción de muertes relacionadas a sida y eliminación de la transmisión materno infantil. En el presente documento se incluyen las recomendaciones de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), sobre nuevos medicamentos antirretrovirales en tratamientos de primera, segunda y tercera línea, en todas las poblaciones incluidas, embarazadas y mujeres en edad fértil; se presentan diferentes esquemas de tratamiento, con el propósito de mejorar la calidad en la atención de la persona con VIH

This clinical guide is an update of the Clinical Guide for Comprehensive Health Care for People with HIV, dated December 2014, which is necessary to contribute to the objectives of the National Multisector Strategic Plan (PENM), whose mission is that of leading actions in the national response to HIV and STIs, guaranteeing access to care for people with HIV and STIs with international standards, preventing new infections; promoting an environment of respect for human rights, gender equality and sexual diversity, aimed at eliminating HIV in El Salvador, reducing new HIV infections, reducing AIDS-related deaths and eliminating mother-to-child transmission. This document includes the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) on new antiretroviral drugs in first, second and third line treatments, in all populations included, pregnant women and women of childbearing age; Different treatment schemes are presented, with the purpose of improving the quality of care for people with HIV.

Lineamientos técnicos para la ejecución de pruebas para ITS y VIH en laboratorios clínicos y bancos de sangre / Technical guidelines for performing tests for STIs and HIV in clinical laboratories and blood banks

La presente guía clínica se constituye en la actualización de la Guía clínica de atención integral en salud de las personas con VIH, de diciembre de 2014, la cual se hace necesaria para contribuir a los objetivos del Plan Estratégico Nacional Multisectorial (PENM) cuya misión es la de conducir acciones en la repuesta nacional al VIH y las ITS, garantizando el acceso a la atención de las personas con VIH e ITS con estándares internacionales, previniendo nuevas infecciones; propiciando un entorno de respeto a los derechos humanos, equidad de género y la diversidad sexual, encaminada hacia la eliminación del VIH en El Salvador, reducción de nuevas infecciones de VIH, reducción de muertes relacionadas a sida y eliminación de la transmisión materno infantil. Se incluyen las recomendaciones de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), sobre nuevos medicamentos antirretrovirales en tratamientos de primera, segunda y tercera línea, en todas las poblaciones incluidas, embarazadas y mujeres en edad fértil; se presentan diferentes esquemas de tratamiento, con el propósito de mejorar la calidad en la atención de la persona con VIH

This clinical guide is an update of the Clinical Guide for Comprehensive Health Care for People with HIV, dated December 2014, which is necessary to contribute to the objectives of the National Multisector Strategic Plan (PENM), whose mission is that of leading actions in the national response to HIV and STIs, guaranteeing access to care for people with HIV and STIs with international standards, preventing new infections; promoting an environment of respect for human rights, gender equality and sexual diversity, aimed at eliminating HIV in El Salvador, reducing new HIV infections, reducing AIDS-related deaths and eliminating mother-to-child transmission. The recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) on new antiretroviral drugs in first, second- and third-line treatments are included, in all populations included, pregnant women and women of childbearing age; Different treatment schemes are presented, with the purpose of improving the quality of care for people with HIV

Uptake of prevention of mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus interventions among infected mothers attending health facilities in Mombasa County, Kenya

Background: The study was conducted in Mombasa County, Kenya, and aimed at the uptake of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission interventions among HIV-infected mothers attending health facilities. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was used between May 2021 and October 2021, utilizing a self-administered structured questionnaire to collect data. The collected information was then analyzed using SPSS version 17 and STATA version 9.2. Methods: The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional research design. Results: 84.8% of respondents exclusively breastfed their babies, and 77.3% received antiretroviral drugs (ARVs). Education level, being a housewife, and religion showed statistically significant associations with PMTCT service uptake (p<0.05). Additionally, 53.7% of participants demonstrated awareness of the importance of enrolling in PMTCT intervention services. The study highlighted high levels of knowledge among participants regarding PMTCT interventions, with 89.9% having correct knowledge of ARVs for children, 83.5% understanding the importance of counselling, 77.3% practicing modified infant feeding, and 85% acknowledging the necessity of delivering in a health facility. Knowledge of PMTCT components such as HIV counselling, ARV usage, facility-based delivery, and early diagnosis was significantly associated with the uptake of PMTCT interventions. Conclusions: Utilization of PMTCT services among postnatal HIV-positive mothers was high among postnatal HIV-positive women who embraced the PMTCT interventions. The respondents had average knowledge concerning PMTCT services. This study suggests supporting and encouraging related stakeholders to provide education about MTCT.

Sífilis congênita em sorocaba: incidência e aspectos clínicos em mães e recém-nascidos / Congenital syphilis in sorocaba: incidence and clinical aspects in mothers and newborn / Sífilis congénita en sorocaba: incidencia y aspectos clínicos en madres y recién nacido

Objetivo: Analisar a incidência de sífilis congênita e descrever o perfil epidemiológico das mães e recém-nascidos diagnosticados no município de Sorocaba, SP. Métodos: Estudo descritivo e inferencial, utilizando dados provenientes da notificação compulsória de casos confirmados de sífilis congênita. A coleta dessas informações ocorreu no período de 2018 a 2022, a partir do banco de dados do Centro Municipal de Atenção Especializada. Resultados: Foram notificados 164 casos e a incidência de sífilis congênita foi de 3,66 novos casos. O perfil sociodemográfico das mães, predominantemente jovens, de etnia branca e com escolaridade desconhecida, reflete desafios na identificação e tratamento. A associação significativa entre o esquema de tratamento materno e a escolaridade, especialmente no ensino superior, destaca a importância do acesso à informação na prevenção da transmissão vertical. Apesar da cobertura universal do pré-natal, a presença majoritária de tratamentos inadequados ou não realizados sugere barreiras práticas e socioeconômicas. A significativa proporção de parceiros não tratados ou desconhecidos destaca a necessidade de abordagens abrangentes. Conclusão: Os resultados destacam a importância de estratégias integradas que ultrapassem o âmbito clínico. A implementação de medidas preventivas, educacionais e de apoio socioeconômico é imperativa para avançar em direção à redução efetiva da sífilis congênita em Sorocaba. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the incidence of congenital syphilis and to describe the epidemiological profile of mothers and newborns diagnosed in the city of Sorocaba, Southeastern Brazil. Methods: This was a descriptive and inferential study using data from the compulsory notification of confirmed cases of congenital syphilis. This information was collected from 2018 to 2022, using the database of the Municipal Center for Specialized Care. Results: 164 cases were reported and the incidence of congenital syphilis was 3.66 new cases. The sociodemographic profile of the mothers, who were predominantly young, of white ethnicity and with unknown schooling, reflects challenges in identification and treatment. The significant association between maternal treatment regimen and schooling, especially in higher education, highlights the importance of access to information in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Despite universal prenatal coverage, the majority of inadequate or non-performing treatments suggests practical and socioeconomic barriers. The significant proportion of untreated or unknown partners highlights the need for comprehensive approaches. Conclusion: The results highlight the importance of integrated strategies that go beyond the clinical scope. The implementation of preventive, educational and socioeconomic support measures is imperative to move towards the effective reduction of congenital syphilis in Sorocaba. (AU)

Objetivo: Analizar la incidencia de sífilis congénita y describir el perfil epidemiológico de madres y recién nacidos diagnosticados en la ciudad de Sorocaba, Sudeste de Brasil. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo e inferencial con datos de la notificación obligatoria de casos confirmados de sífilis congénita. Esta información se recolectó de 2018 a 2022, utilizando la base de datos del Centro Municipal de Atención Especializada. Resultados: Se notificaron 164 casos y la incidencia de sífilis congénita fue de 3,66 casos nuevos. El perfil sociodemográfico de las madres, predominantemente jóvenes, de etnia blanca y con escolaridad desconocida, refleja dificultades en la identificación y el tratamiento. La asociación significativa entre el régimen de tratamiento materno y la escolaridad, especialmente en la educación superior, pone de relieve la importancia del acceso a la información en la prevención de la transmisión maternoinfantil. A pesar de la cobertura prenatal universal, la mayoría de los tratamientos inadecuados o ineficaces plantean barreras prácticas y socioeconómicas. La importante proporción de parejas no tratadas o desconocidas pone de relieve la necesidad de adoptar enfoques integrales. Conclusión: Los resultados ponen de manifiesto la importancia de las estrategias integradas que van más allá del ámbito clínico. La implementación de medidas de apoyo preventivo, educativo y socioeconómico es imprescindible para avanzar hacia la reducción efectiva de la sífilis congénita en Sorocaba. (AU)

Situación epidemiológica de VIH a nivel global y nacional: Puesta al día / Epidemiological situation of HIV at global and national level: update

INTRODUCCIÓN: En las cuatro décadas de la epidemia por VIH, se han observado avances notables que han contribuido a una disminución progresiva en la incidencia de nuevas infecciones y en la mortalidad a nivel mundial. Sin embargo, no ha ocurrido lo mismo en Latinoamérica y en Chile. OBJETIVO: Esta revisión tiene como objetivo conocer la epidemiología actual a nivel global, latinoamericano y chileno. METODOLOGÍA: Se analizaron los informes epidemiológicos oficiales de infección por VIH emitidos por organismos nacionales e internacionales, más los estudios epidemiológicos nacionales. RESULTADOS: Se estima que 39 millones de personas viven con VIH en el mundo; no obstante, la mortalidad y la incidencia de nuevos casos han disminuido de forma notoria durante las últimas dos décadas, asociado a una expansión en al acceso a terapia antirretroviral en forma global. A diferencia del resto del mundo, América Latina presenta una tendencia de alza en las nuevas infecciones y Chile registra un aumento de 35% en nuevos casos durante los últimos 10 años, coincidiendo con un aumento en los flujos de migrantes que ha afectado a la región. Algunas estrategias preventivas como la profilaxis pre exposición se han implementa-do a un ritmo lento, tanto a nivel mundial, como latinoamericano. CONCLUSIONES: La epidemiología del VIH presenta características propias regionales y nacionales. En particular en Chile, diversos factores incluyendo déficit en políticas públicas de prevención y los recientes flujos migratorios han modelado nuestra actual epidemia. El desafío presente debe contemplar los esfuerzos multisectoriales para lograr los objetivos de ONUSIDA en esta década.

BACKGROUND: Over the course of the last four decades of global HIV epidemic, significant improvements have contributed to gradually reduce the frequency of new infections and global mortality rates. However, in Latin America particularly in Chile, new infections continue increasing. AIM: This review aims to comprehend the_epidemiology today on a worldwide, Latin American, and Chilean scale. METHODS: National epidemiology studies and official HIV reports from international and national organizations were reviewed. RESULTS: It is estimated that 39 million people live with HIV worldwide; however, mortality and the incidence of new cases have decreased markedly over the last two decades, associated with an expansion in access to antiretroviral therapy globally. In contrast to the rest of the world, Latin America shows an upward trend in new infections, with Chile registering a 35% increase in new cases over the last 10 years, coinciding with an increase in migratory flows that has occurred throughout the region. Some preventive strategies, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis, have been implemented at a slow pace, both globally and in Latin America. CONCLUSIONS: The epidemiology of HIV has regional and national characteristics. Specifically in Chile, several factors, including deficits in public prevention policies and recent migratory flows, have shaped our current epidemic. The present challenge must contemplate multisectoral efforts to achieve the UNAIDS objectives during this decade.

Avances en el tratamiento de los niños y adolescentes con infección por HIV / Advances in the treatment of children and adolescents with HIV infection

El uso de antirretrovirales (ARV) en el embarazo, el parto y el recién nacido y la aplicación de tratamientos combinados en los niños se han asociado con una disminución del sida en pediatría y el aumento de la sobrevida. La introducción de los inhibidores de integrasa en una dosis diaria ha eliminado barreras para la adherencia, pero los medicamentos orales diarios continúan planteando problemas de privacidad y estigma. Las nuevas tecnologías de administración de los medicamentos y las nuevas drogas junto con la combinación de ARV y los anticuerpos ampliamente neutralizantes (bNAb), ofrecen un potencial de opciones futuras para el tratamiento pediátrico del HIV. Los bNAb son anticuerpos que pueden reconocer diferentes tipos de HIV, bloquear su entrada en las células sanas y ayudar a destruir las células ya infectadas, pueden administrarse por vía parenteral y constituyen un enfoque novedoso y seguro con potencial para el tratamiento y la prevención del HIV, incluida la transmisión vertical. En los lactantes que contraen HIV, los bNAb podrían ofrecer ventajas terapéuticas al reducir el reservorio del virus, mejorar la inmunidad adquirida y, en el futuro, proporcionar un camino hacia la cura funcional. Dentro de los ARV inyectables de acción prolongada, cabotegravir/ rilpivirina se ha incorporado en las guías internacionales de adultos y adolescentes tanto para el tratamiento como para la prevención. A medida que el tratamiento del HIV en adultos va evolucionando, es fundamental asegurar que los neonatos, lactantes, niños y adolescentes tengan acceso a las mejores opciones de tratamiento y prevención a lo largo de su vida (AU)

The use of antiretrovirals (ARVs) during pregnancy, delivery, and in the newborn and the use of combination therapy in children have been associated with a decrease in pediatric AIDS and increased survival. The introduction of once-daily integrase inhibitors has removed barriers to adherence, but daily oral medications continue to pose privacy and stigma issues. New drug delivery technologies and new drugs along with the combination of ARVs and broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) offer potential future options for pediatric HIV treatment. bNAbs are antibodies that can recognize different types of HIV, block their entry into healthy cells and help destroy already infected cells, can be delivered parenterally, and represent a novel and safe approach with potential for the treatment and prevention of HIV, including mother-to-child transmission. In infants who contract HIV, bNBAs could offer therapeutic advantages by reducing the viral reservoir, enhancing acquired immunity and, in the future, providing a pathway to a functional cure. Within the long-acting injectable ARVs, cabotegravir/rilpivirine has been incorporated into international guidelines for adults and adolescents for both treatment and prevention. As adult HIV treatment evolves, it is critical to ensure that newborns, infants, children and adolescents have access to the best treatment and prevention options throughout their lives (AU)

Clinical aspects of co-infection by HIV and syphilis in pregnancy and exposure in newborn intended at Pediatric Hospital of Santa Catarina / Aspectos clínicos da coinfecção por HIV e sífilis na gestação e da exposição de recém-nascidos atendidos em Hospital Pediátrico de Santa Catarina

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections frequently affect pregnant women and, consequently, newborns. HIV and syphilis are vertically transmitted to children and co-infection requires special attention due to its clinical implications. Objective: To describe clinical aspects of HIV/syphilis coinfection during pregnancy and the exposure of newborns to infections treated at a pediatric reference hospital in Santa Catarina between 2015 and 2020. Methods: Observational, descriptive study, secondary to a line of research "Epidemiological description of children exposed to HIV" from January 2015 to December 2020 in a tertiary pediatric hospital in Santa Catarina. Results: 678 medical records were analyzed with ICD Z.206 (contact with and exposure to HIV), in which 71 (10.5%) newborns were exposed to HIV and Syphilis co-infection. Of these, 37 (52.1%) were male, 14 (19.7%) confirmed a diagnosis of HIV and 30 (42.2%) of congenital syphilis. Of the co-infected pregnant women, 38 (53.5%) were diagnosed with HIV prior to pregnancy, 53 (74.6%) used ART and 40 (52.1%) used harmful substances. Furthermore, 34 (46.4%) pregnant women had a minimum number of 6 prenatal consultations, 35 (49.3%) had vaginal births and 29 (40.8%) had undetectable HIV RNA quantification at the time of delivery. HIV prophylaxis for newborns occurred in 66 (92.9%) of cases. Conclusion: It is concluded that the studied population was mostly made up of pregnant women who were diagnosed with HIV infection prior to pregnancy. Of these, the majority were using ART, but the minority carried out the minimum number of consultations recommended by the Ministry of Health. Regarding newborns, the majority received HIV prophylaxis. (AU)

Introdução: As infecções sexualmente transmissíveis afetam frequentemente gestantes e, consequentemente, os recém-nascidos (RN). O vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) e a sífilis são transmitidos verticalmente para as crianças e a coinfecção requer atenção especial por suas implicações clínicas. Objetivo: Descrever aspectos clínicos da coinfecção HIV/sífilis na gestação e da exposição de RN às infecções atendidos em um hospital de referência pediátrica em Santa Catarina entre 2015 e 2020. Métodos: Estudo observacional, descritivo, secundário à linha de pesquisa "Descrição epidemiológica de crianças expostas ao HIV" no período de janeiro de 2015 a dezembro de 2020, em um hospital pediátrico terciário de Santa Catarina. Resultados: Foram analisados 678 prontuários com Classificação Internacional de Doenças ­ CID Z.206 (contato com e exposição ao HIV), nos quais 71 (10,5%) RN foram expostos à coinfecção HIV e sífilis. Destes, 37 (52,1%) eram do sexo masculino, 14 (19,7%) confirmaram diagnóstico de HIV e 30 (42,2%) de sífilis congênita. Das gestantes coinfectadas, 38 (53,5%) possuíam diagnóstico do HIV prévio à gestação, 53 (74,6%) usaram terapia antirretroviral (TARV) e 40 (52,1%) utilizaram substâncias nocivas. Ainda, 34 (46,4%) gestantes obtiveram o número mínimo de seis consultas pré-natais, 35 (49,3%) realizaram partos vaginais e 29 (40,8%) possuíam quantificação RNA-HIV não detectável no momento do parto. A profilaxia para o HIV do RN ocorreu em 66 (92,9%) dos casos. Conclusão: Conclui-se que a população estudada foi formada, na sua maioria, por gestantes que receberam o diagnóstico de infecção pelo vírus do HIV prévio à gestação. Destas, a maioria estava em uso de TARV, porém a minoria realizou o número mínimo de consultas preconizadas pelo Ministério da Saúde. Com relação aos RN, a maioria recebeu profilaxia ao HIV. (AU)

Perceptions and feelings of pregnant women undergoing outpatient follow-up for toxoplasmosis

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis persists as a neglected disease and poses a challenge to public health, especially due to the risk of vertical transmission, which can lead to countless biological complications for the newborn and to psychological and emotional repercussions for the mother. Objective: To understand the perceptions and feelings of pregnant women affected by toxoplasmosis undergoing outpatient follow-up. Materials and Methods: A qualitative and exploratory study developed with 12 women with gestational toxoplasmosis undergoing specialized outpatient follow-up in a municipality from the state of Paraná, Brazil. The data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and subjected to content analysis, supported by descending hierarchical classification. Results: The pregnant women experienced situations ranging from diagnosis and treatment to preventing the disease in the child and family. These experiences generated fear, distress and uncertainty about the disease, which were not adequately addressed during prenatal assistance in primary care. However, the pregnant women emphasized the importance of the multiprofessional team at the secondary level in monitoring and health education. Discussion: Although the pregnant women felt confident about the treatment and its implications for the child's health, discovering the diagnosis impacted their everyday lives and those of their families, especially due to lack of reliable information about toxoplasmosis and to the absence of emotional support at the primary level. Conclusions: There was a temporary scenario of disinformation among these women, who were not properly guided and supported. However, the guidelines offered in secondary health care were essential for improving knowledge and practices in health.

Interpretation of the ACOG clinical practice guidelines for the viral hepatitis in pregnancy 2023 / 重庆医学

Viral hepatitis is a common infectious disease caused by a variety of hepatitis viruses,mainly including types A,B,C,D and E,among which hepatitis B virus(HBV)and hepatitis C virus(HCV)infection are more common.It is one of the important causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.In the case of pregnancy,the interaction between pregnancy and viral infection must be considered,including the impact of the virus on fetal development,the impact on maternal health,and the progression of the disease itself caused by pregnancy,among which the prevention of mother-to-child transmission is the key to reducing the global burden of chronic viral hepatitis.In September 2023,the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists(ACOG)published the clinical practice guidelines for viral hepatitis in pregnancy,which replaced the 2007 version.According to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment,Development and Evaluation(GRADE),the guidelines put forward six suggestions.This paper interpreted the important recommended updates of the guidelines one by one,in order to provide help for the clinical practice of viral hepatitis during pregnancy.

Relationship among maternal gut,vaginal microbiota and microbiota in meconium and vernix caseosa in newborns / 上海交通大学学报（医学版）

Objective·To analyze the diversity and composition of the maternal gut microbiota and vaginal microbiota in late pregnancy,neonatal meconium microbiota and vernix caseosa microbiota,and analyze the similarities,differences and correlations.Methods·This is a prospective study.Maternal stool samples and vaginal swabs in late-pregnancy,and neonatal meconium samples were collected from 11 mother-infant pairs at Xinhua Hospital,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from August to November 2018;the vernix caseosa from three sites(forehead,axilla,and inguinal crease)and meconium samples were collected from 14 healthy newborns at International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in December 2018.All births were vaginal deliveries.The 16S rRNA gene V3?V4 region sequencing was used.The diversity,composition and similarities/differences of the maternal gut microbiota,the vaginal microbiota,and the neonatal meconium microbiota from the 11 mother-infant pairs,as well as the neonatal vernix caseosa microbiota and the meconium microbiota from the 14 newborns were analyzed.Results·The number of operational taxonomic units(OTUs),ACE index,Chao1 index,and Shannon index of maternal gut microbiota were all higher than those of vaginal microbiota;the ACE indices and the Chao1 indices of the vernix caseosa microbiota at three sites were all higher than those of meconium microbiota(P<0.01).The β diversity varied among the maternal gut microbiota,vaginal microbiota,and neonatal meconium microbiota(P<0.01).The β diversity of neonatal vernix caseosa microbiota from three sites(forehead,axilla,and inguinal crease)was similar,but different from meconium microbiota(P<0.01).At the phylum level,the dominant bacteria were Firmicutes(52.76%)and Bacteroidetes(41.67%)in the maternal gut microbiota,Firmicutes(74.36%)and Actinobacteria(21.25%)in the maternal vaginal microbiota,and Firmicutes(84.22%)and Proteobacteria(8.80%)in the neonatal vernix caseosa microbiota.The dominant bacterium in the neonatal meconium was Proteobacteria in the two batches of samples(81.11%and 88.72%,respectively).At the genus level,the dominant bacteria were Bacteroides(35.42%)and Faecalibacterium(10.12%)in the maternal gut microbiota,Lactobacillus(69.10%)and Bifidobacterium(11.30%)in the vaginal microbiota,and Lactobacillus(79.81%)and Pseudomonas(3.23%)in the vernix caseosa microbiota.The dominant bacterium in the neonatal meconium was Escherichia in the two batches of samples(55.21%and 31.18%,respectively).Conclusion·The α diversity of maternal gut microbiota is higher than that of vaginal microbiota and neonatal meconium microbiota,and it is higher in neonatal vernix caseosa than that in meconium microbiota.The Firmicutes is the predominant phylum in the maternal late-pregnancy gut microbiota,vaginal microbiota,and neonatal vernix microbiota.Lactobacillus is the predominant genus in both maternal vaginal and neonatal vernix caseosa microbiota.Proteobacteria in phylum and Escherichia in genus are predominant in meconium microbiota.The microbiota composition is similar in vernix caseosa at different body sites,but there are differences between the vernix caseosa microbiota and meconium microbiota.

Timing of antiviral therapy for pregnant women with HBV infection and normal alanine aminotransferase level aged >30 years / 临床肝胆病杂志

Guidelines for the prevention and treatment of chronic hepatitis B （2022 edition） expanded the indications for antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B. The guidelines recommend to initiate antiviral therapy for patients with chronic HBV infection who have a normal alanine aminotransferase （ALT） level， positive HBV DNA， and an age of >30 years. However， for pregnant women aged >30 years， no consensus has been reached on whether to start antiviral therapy immediately. Some experts believe that pregnant women with a normal ALT level are mostly in the immune-tolerant phase， and antiviral therapy tends to have an unsatisfactory therapeutic effect； in addition， medication during pregnancy may affect the safety of mothers and fetuses. Therefore， it is not recommended to start antiviral therapy immediately in early pregnancy even if the pregnant women are aged >30 years. Other experts believe that immune changes of the body during pregnancy may be a special period for HBV immune clearance， and if the patients are aged >30 years， antiviral therapy should be initiated immediately even if the patient has a normal ALT level； pregnant women may get better virologic and even serological response. With a focus on the above issues， this article elaborates on the purpose， treatment timing， and drug withdrawal timing of antiviral therapy during pregnancy.

Key recommendations in guidelines for the prevention， diagnosis， care and treatment for people with chronic hepatitis B infection released by the World Health Organization in 2024 / 临床肝胆病杂志

In March 2024， the World Health Organization released the latest version of guidelines for the prevention， diagnosis， care and treatment for people with chronic hepatitis B infection. The guidelines were updated in several aspects， including expanding and simplifying the indications for chronic hepatitis B treatment， adding alternative antiviral treatment regimens， broadening the indications for antiviral therapy to prevent mother-to-child transmission， improving the diagnosis of hepatitis B virus， and adding hepatitis D virus （HDV） testing. This article summarizes and gives an excerpt of the recommendations in the guidelines.

Hepatitis B virus carriage among pregnant and lying-in womenin Cangnan County from 2011 to 2022 / 预防医学

Objective@#To investigate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriage among pregnant and lying-in women in Cangnan County, Zhejiang Province from 2011 to 2022 and identify the influencing factors, so as to provide insights into the guidance of healthcare among HBV carriers during pregnancy.@*Methods@#A total of 34 403 women delivered in The Third People's Hospital of Cangnan County from January 2011 to July 2022 were enrolled, and their demographics, HBV carriage and pregnant outcomes were collected. The prevalence of HBV carriage was analyzed among pregnant and lying-in women, and factors affecting HBV carriage were identified using a multivariable logistic regression model.@*Results@#A total of 34 403 pregnant and lying-in women were enrolled, with a median age of 27.00 (interquartile range, 7.00) years, and including 8 118 floating populations (23.60%). The overall prevalence of HBV carriage was 3.44%, and the prevalence of HBV carriage was 1.59% from 2011 to 2014, 4.08% from 2015 to 2018 and 6.86% from 2019 to 2022, appearing a tendency towards a rise (P<0.05). Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified estimated age of delivery (20-24 years, OR=1.832, 95%CI: 1.037-3.235; 25-29 years, OR=2.404, 95%CI: 1.372-4.214; 30-34 years, OR=2.914, 95%CI: 1.656-5.129; 35-39 years, OR=3.116, 95%CI: 1.741-5.576; 40 years and older, OR=2.358, 95%CI: 1.145-4.858), floating population (OR=0.670, 95%CI: 0.574-0.782), scarred uterus after cesarean section (OR=1.228, 95%CI: 1.076-1.521) and year of delivery (from 2015 to 2018, OR=2.504, 95%CI: 2.143-2.926; from 2019 to 2022, OR=4.425, 95%CI: 3.779-5.182) as factors affecting HBV carriage among pregnant and lying-in women.@*Conclusions@#The prevalence of HBV carriage rate appeared a tendency towards a rise among pregnant and lying-in women in Cangnan County from 2011 to 2022. Estimated age of delivery, floating population, year of delivery and scarred uterus after cesarean section are factors affecting HBV carriage.

Hepatitis B virus infection on Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands: a seroprevalence, knowledge and attitudes study

@#Objective: A study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among children and their mothers on Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands two decades after routine vaccination was introduced in the 1990s. Mothers’ knowledge and attitudes towards HBV disease and vaccination were also assessed. Methods: Results of a national seroprevalence survey conducted in 2016–2017 and antenatal records were used to determine the prevalence of HBV seropositivity in children aged 6–8 years and their biological mothers. The associations between demographic, social and vaccination-related factors and seropositivity were explored using Fisher’s exact tests. Results: HBV seroprevalence was 0.3% in children and 6.8% in their mothers (during pregnancy). Coverage of timely HBV vaccination was 90.3% for the birth dose and was significantly associated with factors related to place of residence (P < 0.001), place of birth (P < 0.001) and number of antenatal visits (P < 0.001). Maternal attitudes towards infant vaccination and antenatal screening were largely positive (95.8% and 96.7%, respectively) despite low vaccination rates (20.9%) among mothers. Knowledge levels were low for disease complications, treatment and transmission. Discussion: Prevalence of HBV in children and mothers residing on Kwajalein Atoll in 2016–2017 was lower than the national average for the Marshall Islands. Timely birth dose administration appears to have been effective in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HBV in this setting and should be promoted in remote settings where antiviral therapy is not available. Provision of out-of-cold-chain HBV vaccines should be considered to improve access in remote settings.

Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV service interruptions amid COVID-19 pandemic

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused global disruptions in healthcare service delivery. The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) services were also interrupted, threatening the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 3. This article describes the PMTCT service interruptions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tshwane healthcare facilities. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological design was used to explore and describe the experiences of healthcare providers offering PMTCT services during COVID-19 in the Tshwane district, Gauteng province. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 16 participants, and Colaizzi's data analysis steps were followed in analysing the findings. Results: Participants reported interruptions in PMTCT service delivery during the pandemic. Non-adherence to scheduled visits resulted in patients defaulting or not adhering to treatment regimens, high viral loads and mother­infant pairs' loss to follow-up. Other features of service disruption included late antenatal bookings, low client flow and delays in conducting deoxyribonucleic acid-polymerase chain reaction (DNA-PCR) testing in HIV-exposed babies. In addition, staff shortages occurred because of re-assignments to COVID-19-related activities. Study participants were psychologically affected by the fear of contracting COVID-19 and worked in a frustrating and stressful environment. Conclusion: Improved community-based follow-up services are critical to enhance PMTCT service outcomes and prevent infant HIV infections. Contribution: The findings may influence policymakers in developing strategies to curb HIV infections among mothers and children during pandemics

Approaches for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV services during coronavirus disease 2019

Background: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there was a reduction in access to prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) services globally, yet this programme is critical for reducing paediatric HIV incidence. To minimise the impact of COVID-19 and prevent disruptions to the PMTCT service provision, innovative strategies had to be developed and implemented. Aim: The study aimed to describe the approaches that were developed and utilised during the COVID-19 pandemic in enhancing PMTCT services in Tshwane primary healthcare facilities. Settings: Three primary healthcare facilities that were providing PMTCT services during the COVID-19 pandemic located in the Tshwane district, Gauteng province, South Africa. Methods: The study is part of a larger study that focused on the experiences of healthcare workers who were rendering PMTCT services during the COVID-19 pandemic. An interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) design was employed to gain insight into the experiences of 16 purposively sampled healthcare workers who were providing PMTCT services during the pandemic in Tshwane district facilities. In-depth individual audio-recorded interviews were conducted with study participants, following a semi-structured interview guide. Data analysis was performed using an IPA framework. Results: Three superordinate themes emerged: strategies utilised for providing care, community-based initiatives, and support systems to enhance the PMTCT service access. Conclusion: Strengthening community-based initiatives and support systems is important for the enhancement of the PMTCT programme during and beyond the pandemic. Contribution: Community-based initiatives are critical in continuity of PMTCT services, reducing HIV incidence, under-five child morbidity and mortality particularly during emergency situations.

Maternal and pregnancy outcomes following PMTCT cohort registration in a displaced setting: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND/AIM: This study assessed maternal and pregnancy outcomes following the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) cohort registration in a displaced setting. RESULTS: Of the 223 HIV-positive pregnant women, 201 were enrolled in the program. However, only 186 maternal records met the inclusion criteria. Registration for the PMTCT program occurred primarily during the prenatal period, between the ages of 26 and 30, with a mean gestational age of 15.2 weeks. Only 5.95 reported facility delivery, and up to 70% had over 4 PMTCT follow-up visits before delivery (χ2 = 6.825, P = 0.03). The retention rate among the cohort was 98.4%, with 62 % of the women being active throughout the program and over 86% having a live birth. Most miscarriages occurred during the first trimester. Bivariate analysis suggested that aside from maternal age, similar factors affected maternal and pregnancy outcomes. These factors include maternal prior PMTCT experience, total number of visits, and the place of delivery. CONCLUSIONS: Active follow-up and documentation constitute an effective strategy to improve PMTCT maternal retention in care and improve patient outcomes. Ensuring that women are active in PMTCT care by engaging community health workers in service delivery will create positive outcomes in the program.