Preventing neonatal HIV: a review
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Updated: Aug 25, 2026

Isolation of Leukocytes from Human Breast Milk for Use in an Antibody-dependent Cellular Phagocytosis Assay of HIV Targets
Published on: September 6, 2019
Heather B Jaspan1, Robert F Garry
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA. hbjaspan@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 has become rare in developed countries, with the use of highly active antiretroviral treatment, elective cesarean section, and avoidance of breastfeeding. In the developing world, however, these interventions are unfeasible, and cost-saving methods for prevention of vertical transmission are vital. Prevention begins with voluntary counseling and testing, improved maternal education and access to prenatal care. Various antiretroviral drugs administered before, during, and for short periods after delivery have decreased vertical transmission. Where safe and compliant formula feeding is difficult, avoidance of mixed feeding may improve infant outcomes. However, post-natal transmission via breast milk remains a major challenge. As we continue to find cost-effective answers to protect infants worldwide, the search for a HIV-1 vaccine continues.
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