How applicable are the 2010 WHO guidelines for infant feeding in the context of HIV in low-income countries like Ug
Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES)DRRES-13
This Rapid Response should be cited as
ACRES (2011) How applicable are the 2010 WHO guidelines for infant feeding in the context of HIV in low-income countries like Uganda; A Rapid Response Brief. Kampala: The Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis
Summary
Background: Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) is the primary way children contract HIV, and this can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. In resource-rich settings, mothers with HIV infection are counseled against breastfeeding, but this is not always feasible in low-income countries. Findings: The 2010 WHO guidelines recommend that each country decide whether to promote breastfeeding with antiretroviral intervention or avoidance of all breastfeeding. Where ART is available, mothers known to be HIV-infected are now recommended to breastfeed until 12 months. Conclusion: The 2010 WHO guidelines are applicable to low-income countries, including Uganda, because they address the challenges and conditions prevalent in these settings.