DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjm.2026.v12i10.003

Pages: 1024-1030

Context: Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV can reach 15–45% in the absence of prophylaxis. Thanks to PMTCT programs combining maternal antiretroviral therapy, neonatal prophylaxis, and artificial feeding, this risk is reduced to less than 1%. In Morocco, only 410 pregnant women living with HIV were identified in 2023, with PMTCT coverage, after stagnating, reaching 70% in 2024. In southern Morocco, postnatal follow-up of exposed newborns and maternal knowledge of PMTCT remain insufficient. Objective: To assess the quality of postnatal follow-up of newborns from HIV-positive mothers and the level of maternal knowledge on PMTCT in the pediatric department of Bel Mehdi Hospital in Laâyoune, in order to identify gaps and propose solutions adapted to the specificities of southern Morocco. Methods: A descriptive and prospective study over 18 months including 18 HIV-positive women and their 18 newborns. Data were collected via PMTCT registries, a structured questionnaire, and pediatric follow-up. Results: Eighteen mother-child pairs were included. Mean maternal age: 30 years. HIV status: 61.1% were known to be HIV-positive before pregnancy, 33.3% were diagnosed during pregnancy, and 5.5% were diagnosed at delivery without antenatal treatment. Undetectable viral load in the third trimester: 61.1%. Neonatal antiretroviral prophylaxis (ART) was administered within 12 hours in 66% of cases and after 48 hours in 26%. Monotherapy was used even in high-risk infants. One case of HIV PCR was identified (5.5% of those tested), corresponding to a confirmed mother-to-child transmission (MTCT); treatment with AZT was initiated immediately. Postnatal consultations were attended in 53.3% of cases. BCG vaccination was delayed in 83.3% of cases. Formula feeding was practiced in 83.3% of cases. Maternal knowledge of PMCT was satisfactory in 22.2% of cases. Conclusion: Postnatal care remains only partially compliant with national recommendations. These findings underscore the urgent