Vertical Transmission of HTLV-1/-2 in the Peruvian Amazon Region: Frequency and Potential culturally grounded prevention strategies

The goal of this proposal is to study vertical transmission of HTLV-1/-2 among children born to HTLV-1/-2 positive mothers in an indigenous group in the Peruvian Amazon. It also aims to identify cultural practices (e.g shared breastfeeding) that may influence vertical transmission of HTLV-1/-2 and to explore infant feeding options (e.g. cross-nursing, and shortened breastfeeding duration) to prevent vertical transmission of HTLV-1/-2 and to explore infant feeding options (e.g. cross-nursing, and shortened breastfeeding duration) to prevent vertical transmission of HTLV-1/-2. Primary collaborators are Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia and The Ucayali Regional Direction Office in Peru. Funding is provided through a Fogarty Fellowship Grant to Dr. Isaac Alva.