ENSURING A HIV-FREE START: IMPORTANCE OF EARLY INFANT DIAGNOSIS

Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) plays a crucial role in ensuring a HIV-free start for newborns born to HIV-positive mothers. This review highlights the significance of EID in pediatric HIV care, emphasizing its role in timely identification of HIV infection, prevention of morbidity and mortality, facilitation of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programs, reduction of HIV transmission, and promotion of long-term health outcomes. Despite its importance, EID faces challenges such as limited access to testing services and logistical constraints. Addressing these challenges requires strengthening health systems and leveraging innovative approaches to expand access to EID services. Investing in EID programs is essential for achieving global HIV elimination targets and advancing towards an AIDS-free generation.