A recent tragedy involving the death of a four-month-old baby from HIV at Labasa Hospital has sparked renewed calls for awareness and prevention measures in the community. Temo Sasau, an advocate for HIV awareness, expressed his belief that the infant’s death could have been prevented, pointing out that the transmission of the virus from mothers to babies can be effectively stopped with existing medical interventions.
Sasau emphasized the importance of early medical care, urging families to stop living in fear and silence regarding HIV. “If you know you’re pregnant, or if you know your child is pregnant, please take them to the hospital and do the booking,” he advised, stressing that early booking is crucial for HIV detection.
The case came to light when the baby was admitted to the hospital initially for pneumonia and later for severe complications, at which point doctors conducted an HIV test that unfortunately returned positive results, but only when it was too late for intervention.
The infant’s mother had denied any knowledge of her HIV status; however, medical records indicated she had been diagnosed years earlier and was receiving treatment in secret. This incident has highlighted the stigma surrounding HIV and the critical need for open discussions in the community about the virus.
Dr. Miriama Tukana, a pediatric consultant, noted that the rising rate of pediatric HIV cases in Fiji indicates a pressing need for collective action. Health officials reported alarming statistics, including that 552 HIV cases were documented recently, with many stemming from mother-to-child transmission.
This situation calls for increased awareness campaigns and proactive measures, including routine testing and education for expectant mothers. Community efforts, coupled with government initiatives, aim to foster a supportive environment where individuals can seek testing and treatment without fear.
There is hope, as advancements in medical treatment mean many children born to HIV-positive mothers can be HIV-negative if their mothers access proper care during pregnancy. By addressing these issues and heightening community awareness, it is possible to improve health outcomes and prevent further tragedies.
The emphasis on education, support, and early intervention provides a glimmer of optimism that with collective responsibility, many young lives currently at risk may have a healthier future.
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