95-95-95 HIV indicators among children younger than 15 years in South Africa: results from the 2017 national HIV prevalence, incidence, behaviour, and communication survey

Early detection and initiation of care is crucial to the survival and long-term well-being of children living with HIV (CLHIV). However, there remain challenges regarding early testing and linking of CLHIV for early treatment. This study examines the progress made towards achieving the 95-95-95 HIV indicators and associated factors among CLHIV < 15 years in South Africa. The data was collected as part of the 2017 cross-sectional, multistage cluster randomized population-based household National HIV survey. Age-appropriate structured questionnaires were utilized to gather sociodemographic data, HIV-related knowledge, risk behaviours, and health-related information. Blood samples were collected to test for HIV serology, viral load suppression, and antiretroviral usage. Backward stepwise multivariable generalized linear regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with the 95-95-95 HIV indicators. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) are shown, and p < 0.05 indicates statistical significance.