The diagnosis of human T lymphotropic virus (HTLV) and strategies to expand HTLV screening in the context of maternal and child health. Meeting Report (virtual), 7 July 2023

In recent years, PAHO has been engaging with different stakeholders, including HTLV‑1 specialists, health managers and people living with HTLV-1 to define priorities and to delineate effective strategies to tackle this neglected infection. One of the priorities identified by stakeholders is the prevention of HTLV-1 mother-to-child transmission. However, to be able to prevent vertical transmission, pregnant women living with HTLV-1 must be aware of their status. The coverage of HTLV-1 screening of blood donors is high in the region, but antenatal screening is still limited. Countries still face barriers to implement diagnostic tests for HTLV. There are no international guidelines for HTLV-1 diagnostics and national guidance may vary between countries.