SEROPREVALENCES OF HIV, HBV, TOXOPLASMA AND TREPONEMAL INFECTIONS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN HOCHIMINH CITY, 95-97

Nguyen Kim Tien*, Huynh Thu Thuy*, Truong Xuan Lien*, Tran Huu Lap**

* Pasteur Institute in HoChiMinh City

** Tu Du Hospital, HoChiMinh City

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), syphilis and toxoplasma infections in pregnant women in HoChiMinh City. 3775 pregnant women attending Tu Du obstetric hospital in the period 1995–1997 were randomly included in the study. Three pregnant women (0,1%) had HIV seropositivity, 290 (7.7%) HBsAg (+), 21 (0.6%) treponema infection. Among 293 sera screened for toxoplasma infection, there were 47 seropositive cases (16%). Past history of blood transfusion was found to be factors associated with Treponema seropositivity by univariable analysis. The HIV seroprevalence among pregnant women in HCM City was detected at a low rate (0.1%). Therefore, educating all women attending antenatal clinics how to minimize their future risk of acquiring HIV is urgently necessary. This is the first time in HCM City, the toxoplasma seroprevalence screening was carried out and its result appeared to be a concern. These results should be used to establish appropriate management and preventive measures for women attending