Under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) Phase V, the 'Test and Treat' policy mandates initiation of ART irrespective of CD4 count. Which additional component distinguishes India's current approach from earlier phases?

• A ART only for CD4 < 200 cells/mm³
• B Integration with RMNCH+A restricts HIV testing to first antenatal visit only
• C Opt-out HIV testing limited to high-prevalence states only
• D Universal routine HIV testing at all antenatal contacts ✓

Explanation

NACP Phase V and current national guidelines mandate universal routine (opt-out) HIV testing at every antenatal contact, not just the first visit, integrating PMTCT into the mainstream RMNCH+A platform. ART initiation is now universal regardless of CD4 count (Test and Treat), replacing the earlier threshold of CD4 <350 then <500. Opt-out testing is national policy, not restricted to high-prevalence states.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.