N.J. may be first to test pregnant women, newborns for HIV
www.chinaview.cn 2007-05-14 09:54:02

BEIJING, May 14 (Xinhuanet) -- New Jersey would become the first
state in the United Stats to require both pregnant women and
newborns to be tested for HIV, media reported Monday.

The bill, described as a "no brainer," is under a proposal
introduced by Senate president Richard J. Codey. It would require
all pregnant women be tested for HIV twice, once early in the
pregnancy and a second time in the third trimester. Every birthing
facility in the state would have to test all newborns in their care.

"The key in the fight against HIV and AIDS is early detection and
treatment," Codey said, "For newborns this can be a lifesaving
measure."

According to Codey, the bill stems from a report of Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, which found medical treatment during
pregnancy can dramatically cut mother-to-child HIV transmission.

Under the proposal, the test would be given unless the mother
chooses, in writing, not to have it.

Codey's bill will be scheduled for hearings in the coming weeks. To
become law, it must be approved by both the state Senate and
Assembly, and then signed by the governor.

There are by now, only four states -- Arkansas, Michigan, Tennessee
and Texas -- require health care providers to test a mother for HIV,
unless the mother specifically asks not to be tested.

Connecticut and New York are the only states that test all newborns
for HIV.

New Jersey has some of the highest rates in the nation for AIDS
cases, women with AIDS and pediatric HIV and AIDS cases.

(Agencies) Editor: Jiang Yuxia
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-05/14/content_6095619.htm