Grapevine

Soroti Hospital saves over 128 babies from contracting HIV at birth

Soroti Regional Referral Hospital (SRRH) has successfully prevented 128 babies from contracting HIV/AIDS from their mothers living with the virus. This impressive achievement is attributed to comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

According to the 2023 report, only three babies born to HIV-positive mothers at SRRH succumbed to pneumonia, sickle cells, and malaria, respectively.

Ms Ruth Nalugo, a mentor mother at SRRH, highlighted the challenges faced by some mothers. "Some stop taking their medication during breastfeeding, posing a high risk of transmission to their babies."

As a mentor mother who has gone through similar experiences, Nalugo emphasised the importance of adherence to medication and openness about one's status.

"We encourage them to have good adherence and swallow their medicines," she said.