Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues

The increased vulnerability of children infected with HIV necessitates a holistic approach to their management. This includes psychosocial support. Individualistic western liberal perspectives differ significantly from African cultures where communalism is the structure of traditional African society, resulting in challenges in autonomous decision-making. Disclosure to the child presents taxing ethical dilemmas. Social harms of stigma, discrimination and ostracisation remain a reality. Health care practitioners are obliged to report abuse when uncovered during the course of their management. The Constitution mandates that the child’s best interests are of paramount importance.