No HIV transmission from virally suppressed mothers during breastfeeding in rural Tanzania (2018)
Brief report from clinical practice in Tanzania which found no HIV transmission from mothers who were retained in care and had suppressed viral load whilst breastfeeding. They conclude: "Breastfeeding signifies a very low risk when mothers adhere to ART."
Malawi MPs use SADC Model Law on HIV to fight bad parts of HIV Bill
After nearly 10 years of intense debate and consultations, Malawi Members of Parliament voted to reject controversial provisions in their HIV (Prevention and Management) Bill. The Bill had included provisions that would have made HIV testing and treatment mandatory for specific people in a discriminating manner. Additionally, and perhaps more controversially, the Bill had sought, also, to allow criminalisation of HIV transmission, exposure and non-disclosure. This newsletter captures part of the debates leading to the passing of the final Bill.
The potential for transmission of human immunodeficiency virus through human bites
Reviews evidence related to the potential for HIV transmission through human bites. Concludes that while biologically possible, transmission remains unlikely, risk is epidemiologically insignificant and as yet, has not been well documented.
Position on the Criminalization of HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Other Communicable Diseases
Highlights the detrimental effects of criminalization statutes and offers a statement of support for evidence-based prevention measures and interventions to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
Position Statement on HIV Criminalization
States that criminal law is an ineffective and inappropriate tool to prevent HIV exposure and transmission because it dissuades people from accessing diagnostic and treatment services and compromises open and honest communication with nurses. Recommends that nurses advocate for the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS.