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Current status of pediatric human immunodeficiency virus infection in Japan
Daisuke Sunohara1, Shigeo Nishimata1, Atsushi Kondo1
1Department of Pediatrics, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan.
Insights
Pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Japan is rare, with mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) significantly reduced due to interventions. Current data shows a low MTCT rate and few reported pediatric HIV cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Limited English literature exists on pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Japan.
- Understanding the epidemiology of pediatric HIV is crucial for targeted interventions.
Observation:
- In Japan, HIV transmission routes include sexual activity, mother-to-child transmission (MTCT), blood transfusions, and drug use.
- Recent years have seen most pediatric HIV cases stemming from MTCT.
- A survey indicated 52 infants were infected via MTCT between 1984 and 2011.
Findings:
- Since 2010, only two pediatric HIV infection cases have been reported in Japan.
- Effective preventive interventions have decreased the MTCT rate to 0.5%.
- Over 98.3% of pregnant women in Japan undergo HIV antibody testing.
Implications:
- The success of preventive measures highlights the potential for further reduction of pediatric HIV.
- Continued surveillance and testing are vital for maintaining low transmission rates.
- This study provides valuable insights into the current status of pediatric HIV in Japan for global health organizations.
Abstract:
There are currently very few English reports about Japanese pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In this study, we introduce our experience with pediatric HIV in a single hospital, and review the present status of HIV infections in children in Japan. In Japan, the main infection routes of HIV include sexual activity, mother-to-child transmission (MTCT), blood or blood product transfusion, and drug use. Most pediatric HIV patients have been infected by MTCT in recent years. One survey showed that in Japan, 52 babies were infected by MTCT between 1984 and 2011. Only 2 cases of pediatric HIV infection have been reported since 2010. The MTCT rate has decreased to 0.5% owing to several preventive interventions. In addition, the HIV antibody test is now performed in more than 98.3% of pregnant women in Japan.
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