WHO recommends the designation of treatment of HIV infection lactating

Referring to the data of the latest research, the World Health Organization (WHO) changed its recommendations for treatment and prevention of HIV infection.

For the first time experts, WHO has recommended antiretroviral agents for lactating mothers and infants to prevent transmission of immunodeficiency virus through breastfeeding. Earlier treatment provided to women during the third trimester of pregnancy (from 28 th week), and after childbirth taking medication was stopped.

Under the new WHO recommendations, antiretroviral drugs should be prescribed to HIV-infected patients before the level of T-helper limofitsitov (immune system cells that were infected) per cubic milliliter of blood falls below 350 units. The presence or absence of external manifestations of infection should not play a role in the appointment of therapy.

WHO officials noted that in 2008 the number of HIV-infected people receiving antiretroviral therapy has increased in comparison with 2007 by 36 percent, in absolute terms, treatment received by a million more. Despite this, drugs are less than half the patients who need them.

According to the Joint UN Program on HIV / AIDS, bringing the total number of HIV carriers in the world is about 33.5 million people. In 2008, HIV infection contracted from 2,4 to 3 million people, about 2 million have died from diseases associated with immunodeficiency.