On the global journey to eliminate HIV infections among children, different countries and regions face distinctly different challenges. Recently, at the AIDS2024 conference, Dr. Kira Elsbernd from the University of Munich in Germany delivered a special report on the risk factors involved in HIV vertical transmission and was interviewed by Infectious Diseases Frontier(IIDF). Dr. Elsbernd pointed out that there are significant differences in the rates of HIV vertical transmission between Mozambique and Tanzania. Key factors such as age, duration of antiretroviral therapy, number of antenatal care visits, and viral load at the time of delivery play crucial roles. To effectively reduce the mother-to-child transmission rate of HIV, she emphasized the need for a deep understanding of these risk factors and the design of targeted interventions. Additionally, Dr. Elsbernd expressed optimism about emerging fields and technologies, such as point-of-care diagnostics and broadly neutralizing antibodies, which she believes will play a significant role in the future prevention of pediatric HIV.

Pediatric care and treatment for children with HIV infection have always been a critical component in the global fight against AIDS. Recently, at the AIDS2024 conference, Dr. Anna Turkova from University College London shared her insights with Infectious Diseases Frontier(IIDF) on the breakthrough advancements in pediatric HIV care. She highlighted that the detection and diagnosis of undiagnosed children with HIV remain a major challenge that requires ongoing effort and investment. While the use of dolutegravir-based triple oral therapy has led to significant success in treating pediatric HIV, the development and application of innovative therapies such as long-acting injectables are still in progress. Additionally, psychosocial support is crucial in pediatric HIV care. Looking to the future, Dr. Turkova envisions long-acting injectable preventive treatments, painting a hopeful picture for the global pediatric HIV care landscape.