| Abstract: | This paper describes the results of two studies concerning a programme to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Botswana. The programme included VCT, provision of oral AZT to the HIV infected mothers and to the infant, infant feeding counselling and support, and free provision of formula for infants of HIV infected mothers who opted not to breastfeed. The study evaluating the pilot phase of the programme concluded that the programme should be scaled up. After the programme expanded, a follow-up evaluation of infant feeding practices was conducted. Infant feeding practices differed significantly between intervention and non-intervention sites and between mothers of unknown HIV status, non-infected mothers and HIV-infected mothers. Among the infected mothers who chose exclusive formula feeding, 96% maintained this up to the time of interview. Health workers' knowledge about HIV transmission was weak. Counselling on feeding needs to be improved in many areas. |
