Devex: How real numbers can eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV
Patricia Mechael, principal and policy lead at HealthEnabled and faculty member at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies

“…The simple act of registering pregnant women — and their newborn children — within the health system is providing the basis for South Africa to accurately pinpoint real cases of HIV in pregnant women. This helps ensure safe delivery, supported through appropriate medication, and tracks their infants to one year to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV once and for all. … Increasingly, studies are showing that mobile phone messages and information sharing can improve adherence to HIV treatment and ensure full coverage of targeted health services including immunizations. … By collaborating across sectors and harnessing the latest digital technologies, we can sustain efforts in the long run and truly eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV” (11/11).