Vertical transmission of HIV-1 in Poland.

The aim of our study was to evaluate changes in vertical transmission of HIV infection in Poland after introducing zidovudine prophylactic strategies. Data from the Department of Children's Infectious Diseases (a paediatric HIV referral centre) at the Medical University, Warsaw was studied. Since 1989 vertical transmission of HIV-1 has been studied in 100 children born to 91 HIV-positive mothers (2 sets of twins). Zidovudine therapy, mode and timing of delivery and their relationship to perinatal HIV-1 infection were analysed. From 1989 to 1994 the transmission rate was 31.5%. Since 1995, when recommendations based on ACTG 076 were issued, a decline in a transmission rate to 19.6% was reported. 62% (32 out of 52) mother-infant pairs received zidovudine therapy. None of those children have become HIV infected. Zidovudine chemoprophylaxis regimen reduces the risk for mother to child transmission. It should be recommended for all HIV-infected pregnant women or women in labour and their infants.