Ivorians sensitised on HIV-positive breastfeeding mothers

Abidjan- Cote d'Ivoire (PANA) -- Mothers who are HIV positive may breastfeed their babies until they are six months old, according to Dr Kouakou Virginie of the National Infant Health Programme in Cote d'Ivoire.
The health official explained that this safe because during this period the mother's white cells secrete antibodies which protect the child from HIV infection.
Mothers with HIV have the choice between exclusive breastfeeding or bottle feeding with food supplements, she told a workshop aimed at training health workers in the new integrated course of the World Health Organisation (WHO) on breastfeeding, food and nutrition counselling.
The workshop is the first of its kind to be held in francophone black Africa.