Importance of HIV Screening During Pregnancy
Dr. Narjes Ben Ammar, coordinator of the National Maternal and Neonatal Health Program, emphasized the importance of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) screening during pregnancy. She specified that it is highly recommended for pregnant women to undergo an HIV test during the first trimester.
During her appearance on the Sabah El Tounssia show on National Radio on Thursday, December 18, 2025, Dr. Ben Ammar indicated that health services immediately take care of the pregnant woman if the test result is positive. She explained that a woman carrying the virus can give birth to a non-infected child.
The speaker recalled that the Tunisian state offers free screening and care for people living with HIV. Finally, she added that specific measures are put in place to ensure a secure delivery (whether vaginal or cesarean), in addition to medical care for the newborn, noting that currently available medications are very effective.
