Guidelines for the clinical management ofHIV infection in Myanmar

HIV/TB Resource 28 Oct 2024

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Introduction

HIV is now a treatable condition and the majority of people who have HIV remain fit and well on treatment. Despite this, a significant number of people are unaware of their HIV status and remain at risk to their own health and unknowingly passing their virus to others. Late diagnosis is the most important factor associated with HIV related morbidity and mortality. Patients should therefore be offered and encouraged to accept HIV testing in a wider range of settings.

In 2022, HIV programme review recommended to update the national HIV clinical management guidelines according to the latest global guidance and recommendations. Under the leadership of the National AIDS Programme, the core writing group was formed and drafted the Guidelines on the clinical management of HIV infection in Myanmar: Sixth Edition. These guidelines aim to guide all health care providers in Myanmar, accommodating the situation of different settings in the context of progressive decentralization of HIV services. Notable changes from the previous edition include:

  • diagnosis of HIV
  • preferred ARV regimen and optimization
  • PrEP and PEP updates
  • updates on co-infections and comorbidities management

It should be noted that these guidelines are meant for the operational level and are adapted and adopted in line with existing Myanmar context.