All are true about perinatal transmission of HIV Except-
**Core Concept**
Perinatal transmission of HIV refers to the vertical transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This transmission occurs through the passage of HIV-infected maternal blood, vaginal secretions, or breast milk to the fetus or infant.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The risk of perinatal transmission of HIV can be significantly reduced with antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy and labor, as well as elective cesarean delivery before the onset of labor and before the rupture of membranes. The use of ART also reduces the viral load in maternal blood and breast milk, thereby decreasing the risk of transmission. Additionally, the administration of antiretroviral prophylaxis to the infant after birth can further reduce the risk of transmission.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option may be incorrect as it does not provide a clear statement about perinatal transmission of HIV. However, it is essential to verify the specific statement to determine its accuracy.
**Option B:** This option may be incorrect if it suggests that breastfeeding is the primary mode of transmission, as the risk of transmission through breastfeeding is relatively low with effective ART.
**Option C:** This option may be incorrect if it implies that all infants born to HIV-positive mothers will develop HIV infection, as the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced with effective ART and other interventions.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The World Health Organization recommends that all pregnant women living with HIV should initiate ART as soon as possible after diagnosis, regardless of their CD4 count or clinical symptoms. This approach has significantly reduced the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
**Correct Answer: A.**