Children with HIV

HIV-exposed children

SHM also monitors the health of HIV-infected and HIV-exposed children. In particular, SHM examines the long-term effect of short-lasting treatment with antiretroviral combination therapy during and after birth. In addition, SHM monitors the effect of anti-HIV drugs not only on the infection, but also on the developing immune system. A specific group encompasses those children exposed to antiretroviral drugs, but not living with HIV.

Special registration

To follow childrens’ health optimally, SHM has set up a special form of registration. The child’s data are linked to the mother’s data, providing the mother gave permission. The paediatrician will always ask the parents aor guardians for permission to collect medical data for research. From the age of 12, the child's consent will also be required. For more information, see below the information letter for child up to 12 years old and the information letter for child aged 12 and above.

Information letter child up to 12 years old

Information letter child aged 12 years

HIV monitoring and your child’s privacy

The child's medical data and blood plasma are stored in the SHM database under a unique code, separate from the registration data. Within the treatment center, a linkage list with this unique code number is available, enabling the treatment team to connect SHM results to the child to improve care.