HIV and AIDS

Can Infants and Children Get HIV?

Yes, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) can affect infants and children. In the US, about 7,900 children have been diagnosed with HIV or AIDS. Many of these cases happen when an infected mother transmits the virus to her baby, either during pregnancy or at birth.

Previously, some children were exposed to HIV through blood products that were contaminated before regular blood testing was implemented.

Risk of HIV Transmission from Healthcare Workers

There have been no reported cases of infants or children contracting HIV from a healthcare worker who is not their parent. Effective infection control practices are implemented to prevent this kind of transmission.

Blood Safety and HIV

Studies show that the chance of receiving HIV from a blood transfusion in the U.S. is extremely low - about 2 in 1,000,000. This risk is much lower compared to everyday hazards, like the risk of injury in a car accident. Ensure your child uses proper safety restraints in vehicles to minimize such risks.

How Hospitals Can Prevent Infections

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentions that the best method for hospitals to prevent infections is by adopting and rigorously applying universal precautions. This involves treating all blood and bodily fluids as potentially infectious and employing protective measures to avoid exposure.

What to Ask Your Child’s Doctor

If you’re concerned about your child’s risk of serious infections, ask the doctor if they use universal precautions and whether the hospital has a strong infection control program and a universal precautions policy.