On 16th October 2025, the latest Penta/EACS HIV Treatment Guidelines were launched at the EACS Conference in Paris, offering clinicians recommendations that reflect the latest science to ensure the best possible care for newborn, children and adolescents living with HIV.
The newly released Guidelines include dolutegravir as the only preferred first-line option for term newborns, based on findings from the PETITE-DTG study, and in line with the WHO’s programmatic approach. The update also features more detailed guidance on the use of dual therapy with oral medications or long-acting injectable agents, offering clinicians greater flexibility in tailoring treatment.
A new, dedicated section addresses the transition from paediatric to adult care, a critical and often challenging phase for young people living with HIV. The Guidelines outline the essential components of a successful, youth-centred transition, emphasising the importance of early planning, clear communication and close collaboration between paediatric and adult services. The new recommendations advocate for personalised transition plans that integrate medical, emotional, social and educational support, empowering young people to take an active role in managing their health.
The section on postnatal prophylaxis and infant feeding remains largely unchanged, but now includes more precise guidance on mixed feeding. Despite varying practices across Europe, the Guidelines offer clear principles for assessing transmission risk, choosing infant postnatal prophylaxis (PNP), and infant HIV testing and monitoring.
Through their ongoing collaboration, Penta and EACS continue to deliver essential guidance on the best possible treatment options for children and adolescents living with HIV. The full guideline is available here and a paper summarising the main updates for the full guideline is available here.