Possible support for PMTCT from German Development Cooperation
Theme Group on Health, Working Group SRHR and Working Group AIDS, 25 January 2011
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Since 1998, when clinical studies proved that the short-term administration of antiretroviral medication reduces the mother-to-child transmission of HIV by 50 %, drug prophylaxis to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission has been introduced as an important and effective prevention strategy in partner countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe as well. G8 countries including Germany committed in 2005, and again in 2007, to contribute to improved access to Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT). However, PMTCT involves more than drug prophylaxis to prevent HIV transmission from mother to child, and can make an effective contribution to improving the health of mothers, newborn infants and children. PMTCT also encompasses HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, maternal and child health and antiretroviral therapy, and should only be implemented in this comprehensive context.
