Public Health in El Salvador: HIV screening intensified in pregnant women
The Ministry of Health of El Salvador has reported the detection of 67 new cases of HIV in pregnant women during the period between June 2025 and May 2026. This figure is the result of an exhaustive screening program that managed to evaluate 46,775 pregnant women, guaranteeing access to diagnostic tests for both HIV and syphilis throughout the national territory.
To strengthen this epidemiological surveillance and maternal and child care system, the State allocated an investment of 4 million dollars, also counting on the financial support of PEPFAR, which contributed 183,092 dollars specifically for the acquisition of reagents. These resources have been fundamental to identify patients carrying the virus and ensure the necessary medical follow-up for exposed children.
Epidemiological overview and prevention
So far in 2026, El Salvador has recorded 489 new cases of HIV, 16% of which correspond to women. Official data indicate that the most affected age group is between 25 and 29 years old. Regarding geographical distribution, San Salvador leads the records with 89 cases, followed by Sonsonate (32) and La Libertad (28).
Early detection is the cornerstone for combating vertical transmission—from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding—. Thanks to advances in antiretroviral therapy, it is now possible for mothers with a positive diagnosis to give birth to healthy babies, provided that adequate prenatal care and timely initiation of treatment are guaranteed.
One of the fundamental pillars in early detection is routine testing, and this, in relation to pregnancy, must be performed mandatorily at the beginning of gestation. Today, HIV-positive women can have children who are seronegative.
Dr. Danilo Arévalo Sandoval, specialist in Gynecology and OncologyChallenges and advances in treatment
Dr. Arévalo Sandoval emphasizes that the Salvadoran health system is evaluating the implementation of HIV testing using saliva samples, a promising alternative for reaching hard-to-access areas. Likewise, he reiterated that access to medications and tests is completely free under current regulations.
- Timely detection: It is recommended to perform screening tests (HIV, syphilis, hepatitis) during the first trimester of pregnancy.
- Medical follow-up: Early initiation of antiretroviral treatment is vital to reduce viral load and prevent transmission to the baby.
- Fighting stigma: It is essential to eradicate myths about the disease, as many women avoid check-ups for fear of social judgment, even though a positive diagnosis does not necessarily mean the newborn will contract the virus.
The commitment of the Salvadoran health authorities remains firm in the protection of maternal and child health, promoting a comprehensive approach that is not limited only to the clinical aspect, but also provides human support to patients throughout their entire pregnancy process.
