Baby.mobi
PCR testing – this is used to find out if a baby or a child younger than 18 months is HIV-positive. PCR stands for polymerase chain reaction.
It very important for pregnant mothers to know their own status. If they are HIV-positive they required treatment so that they can prevent the transmission of HIV to their child.
An important part of caring for babies and children with HIV is to find out as soon as possible if they are HIV-positive.
If you test a newborn baby for HIV using the normal antibody test that is used for adults, the test will not show the true results. This is because a new baby shares his or her mother's antibodies until about 12 months of age.
In children younger than 18 months, the best way to test for HIV is using a test that looks for the HIV virus itself and not the HIV antibodies. These tests are called PCR tests. A PCR test should be done when the baby is 4 to 6 weeks old. Our national protocol for PMTCT says a baby has a right to a PCR test.
At 18 months all children born to HIV-positive mothers, including those who tested HIV-negative in the PCR test, should be tested again using an antibody test.
If your baby is HIV-positive treatment is available and should be started as soon as possible. Speak to your health care worker about the best time to start treatment.
It is best to either exclusively (only) breast-feed or formula feed a baby for the first 6 months. DO NOT MIX FEED – IT INCREASES THE CHANCES OF PASSING ON HIV TO YOUR BABY.
