Seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in pregnant women in Zahedan, Southeastern Iran

Approximately 80% of HIV infections in women occur primarily during their reproductive years. Hence, pregnancy provides a unique opportunity for implementing prevention strategies against HIV infection. If we define the seroprevalence of infection in pregnancy, the effective and timely intervention will reduce the transmission of infection to newborns. To determine the prevalence of HIV infection in pregnant women in Zahedan, we conducted this study. From January 2006 to November 2006, we evaluated a series of pregnant women referred to antenatal clinics in Zahedan, for obstetric consultation. Blood samples of all pregnant women were collected and tested for HIV antibodies by ELISA method. Positive samples were retested by Western-blot. A total of 1783 cases were evaluated. Three cases were found to be HIV seroreactive. Infection was confirmed in one case (0.05%). Upon the results emerged from this study, we don’t recommend HIV screening on each pregnant woman in this area. HIV testing is recommended only for those with risk factors.