Lesotho
Country Situation
Adult HIV prevalence (ages 15-49) in Lesotho, estimated at 23.6% in 2009, is one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally[1]. HIV prevalence (ages 15-49) is higher in urban areas (27.2%) than rural areas (21.1%), and females are more likely to be HIV positive than males (27% vs. 18% respectively) as of 2009[8]. HIV prevalence among pregnant women was 23% in 2009. Between 2009 and 2011, Lesotho has seen a 21% decline in the number of new paediatric HIV infections – from 4,700 to 3,700[3].
Lesotho’s commitment to attaining universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care services is beginning to show results. HIV testing coverage among pregnant women increased from 9% in 2005 to 57% in 2010[9], and 63% of pregnant women living with HIV received efficacious ARVs for PMTCT in 2011, up from 38% in 2009[3]. Virologic testing of HIV-exposed infants increased from 33% in 2009 to 78% in 2010[9].
Lesotho has adopted WHO Option A regimen for prophylaxis and a national EMTCT plan (2011-2015) is in place. Given the progress to date, Lesotho is well placed to achieve Global Plan targets.
Link to the Lesotho_National EMTCT Plan_2011.
Link to the Lesotho Ministry of Health.
