FAQs

Pediatric infectious disease monitoring of the newborn is essential. This should be established prior to discharge from the hospital. If possible, discussions should be initiated during the third trimester to impress upon the parent the importance of adequate newborn care during the first few weeks of life. It is necessary that the baby’s HIV status be determined by administering a series of tests during the first 18-24 months of life so that appropriate medications can be initiated if necessary.

The US Department of Health and Human Services publishes the Recommendations for the Use of Antiretroviral Drugs During Pregnancy and Interventions to Reduce Perinatal HIV Transmission in the United States. These guidelines are reviewed and updated often. It is best to check for the most recent treatment guidelines at HIVinfo. Another way to ensure up-to-date treatment information is to call the Illinois Perinatal HIV Hotline at 1-800-439-4079 and consult with the physician on call.

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