Background: Vertical transmission of HIV remains the main source of pediatric HIV infection with transmission rates as high as 25%-45% without intervention. This rate can be reduced to levels below 2% with effective interventions.Methods: This study summarizes the interventions taken up by the PPTCT centre from 2003 to 2014. The interventions were based on WHO guidelines adopted by NACO. All HIV positive mothers who were followed up or referred to sisu raksha-PPTCT centre were included in the study and their infants were followed up till 18 months of age. All the HIV positive mothers were given appropriate counselling and CD4 count estimation was done. They were given antiretroviral drugs as per respective WHO guidelines adopted by NACO and were counselled regarding feeding option. The babies were given antiretroviral drugs as per guidelines and were followed up for a period of 18 months after birth.Results: From 2003 to 2010, the rate of mother to child transmission was 5.2% (30/573). From 2011 to 2014, after implementation of WHO 2010 guidelines, the transmission rate reduced to 3.5% (12/342). Further analysis of the data was done. From 2003 to 2010, 72.6% (441/607) mothers practiced exclusive breastfeeding. From 2011 and 2014, 95.5% (345/361) mothers practiced exclusive breastfeeding.Conclusions: Effective implementation of WHO PPTCT guidelines, early diagnosis in pregnancy, antiretroviral drug intake in mother and Nevirapine prophylaxis to the baby together reduce mother to child transmission of HIV considerably.

Background: Diphtheria is a fatal bacterial infection which affects the mucous membranes of oropharyngeal and nasal cavity, caused by aerobic gram-positive bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae. With the advent of universal immunization against diphtheria the incidence of this infectious disease has declined dramatically with few developed nations having eradicated the disease. No large outbreaks have been reported in India in recent times.Methods: In present study, authors reviewed an outbreak of diphtheria in Davangere between the months of June 2017 and July 2018. Case records of children suspected to have diphtheria, admitted to hospitals affiliated to JJM Medical College, Davangere were retrospectively analysed.Results: 15 cases were suspected to have diphtheria on clinical examination. The mean age of presentation was 7.5 years. Fever, sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, neck swelling and patch in oral cavity were the common signs and symptoms. Airway compromise, myocarditis and neurological complications were noted. Antidiphtheritic serum (ADS) was tried in all 15 cases. Case fatality rate was 40%.Conclusions: Diphtheria is a resurgent problem in India. Prompt identification and early appropriate treatment is essential to prevent morbidity and mortality. Strict adherence to the national immunisation schedule should also be emphasized.