Abbott and Boehringer in HIV Prevention Alliance

A cooperative arrangement that will help prevent the transmission of HIV from mother to child has been announced by Abbott Laboratories (Abbott Park, IL, USA) and Boehringer Ingelheim (Ingelheim, Germany).

Through this arrangement, eligible organizations with comprehensive prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV can receive at no charge Abbott's rapid tests for HIV (Determine HIV ½) and Viramune (nevirapine), Boehringer's antiretroviral treatment that reduces virus transmission from mother to child when administered during labor and after childbirth. In addition, the alliance will enable greater access to these donated products, making it easier for recipient organizations to receive product donations and encouraging the creation of new PMTCT programs in the developing world.

The two companies are working with Axios International, an organization for improvement of health care in developing countries, to provide a simple application process for PMTCT programs. Participating agencies that support PMTCT programs include Family Health International, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, and the Catholic Medical Mission Board. Boehringer already has programs operating in 44 developing countries, while Abbott has shipped HIV rapid tests to 68 developing countries.

"Turning the tide against the spread of HIV from mother to child requires the cooperation and leadership of many stakeholders,” said Miles D. White, chairman and CEO, Abbott Laboratories. "This cooperation will help prevent HIV transmission and assist these developing nations stabilize their future.”





Related Links:
Abbott
Boehringer