Surabaya Records 136 Cases of HIV Exposed Children, Health Office Conducts Free ARV Treatment

Liputan6.com, Surabaya – The head of the Surabaya City Health Office, Nanik Sukristina, revealed that 136 cases of child HIV in Surabaya were found and recorded until 2022, consisting of 55 cases of residents with Surabaya KTPs and 81 cases of non-Surabaya KTPs. The age range of children affected by HIV is around 1-14 years.

“So, from the beginning of the year to February 2023, there have been no findings and reports of new cases of HIV in children in Surabaya,” he said, Friday (24/2/2023).

According to him, an indication of the risk of HIV transmission to children is caused by a lack of adherence to taking ARV medication for HIV-infected mothers, and the absence of support from partners or family.

“This HIV virus does not only attack adults, HIV cases have also been found in children. Transmission of the HIV virus that occurs in children is due to vertical transmission, namely transmission through mothers who have been infected with the HIV virus. Transmission can occur during pregnancy, during childbirth and while breastfeeding,” she said.

Therefore, the Surabaya Health Office has made efforts to treat the children who have been infected with HIV, including providing free ARV treatment.

Early Infant Diagnose examination for infants aged at least six weeks, assistance, counseling and home care to strengthen the patient’s psychological condition, and provision of PMT Milk support to maintain health conditions and increase immunity.

“In addition, the Health Office also handles population issues such as the need for certificates and family cards, strengthening Peer Support Groups (KDS) involving HIV-infected pregnant women and children with HIV, and strengthening counseling by doctors or psychologists in HIV services for both patients, the patient’s partner and/or family,” he said.

Besides that, efforts to treat children who have been infected with HIV, the Health Office also carries out preventive promotive efforts, including providing education about HIV prevention in the class of pregnant women.

Providing education on HIV prevention to adolescents (junior high and high school students), providing education on HIV prevention to prospective brides, and expanding access to HIV testing in all health centers and hospitals.