Perinatal Linkage connects clients to prenatal care, Healthy Start, WIC, and other programs or services. Perinatally acquired HIV diagnoses spiked in Florida in 1994 when 116 cases were reported. Since that time, the number of cases have dropped, and in 2019 there were no cases reported.
The goals of Area 1’s Perinatal Linkage Program are to reach pregnant females who have HIV to:
- Prevent the transmission of HIV from mother to baby
- Educate pregnant women living with HIV about pregnancy needs and resources for meeting those needs
- Provide confidential support and counseling to pregnant women living with HIV
- Ensure compliance with all prenatal appointments and medication
The AIDS virus from the mother can infect the baby during pregnancy, during delivery, through breastfeeding, and by pre-chewing food to feed a baby or child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Perinatal Linkage located?
Perinatal Linkage is located at the Florida Department of Health in Escambia County’s HIV/AIDS Regional Program Office covering Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton counties.
How can I enroll in the program?
Ask your healthcare provider for a referral to the program, or call the Perinatal Linkage Coordinator at 850-316-2726.
What if I need transportation?
Perinatal Linkage works with area resources to coordinate transportation to appointments.
Will I have to tell anyone?
Not unless you want to. Health information will be kept confidential according to privacy practices and laws.