Comprehensive package of care for infants and young children exposed to HIV

Overview

Despite global progress to eliminate the vertical transmission of HIV, the targets for maternal antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage and new vertical transmission have yet to be achieved. While encouraging trends have been documented in eastern and southern Africa (the epicentre of the HIV pandemic), persisting challenges remain in preventing infants and young children from acquiring HIV during pregnancy and the breastfeeding period. 

This policy brief outlines the background, justification, scope and components of a comprehensive package of care for infants and young children exposed to HIV. 

Although the comprehensive package of care includes maternal, infant and young child interventions, this policy brief focuses mainly on the service package for infants and young children up to two years of age who are exposed to HIV. It emphasizes the maternal interventions that directly affect decision-making for interventions for the infants and young children exposed to HIV. For the detailed interventions for preventing vertical transmission, including combination HIV prevention for pregnant and breastfeeding women at risk of acquiring HIV, see the 2021 WHO consolidated guidelines.