47 Children Wirth AIDS in Costa Rica
The Hospital Nacional de Niños in Costa Rica says there are 47 children infected with the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The minors range in age from newborn to 18 and are under medical care.

More than 90% of the minors were infected by their mothers, because they never received adequate treatment during pregnancy or at the time of birth, which would have greatly reduced the possibility of infection.

The group is made up of 23 males and 24 females, who live with their families, who are also infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Dr. Oscar Porras of the Clínica de Infección por VIH en Niños, says that of the infected minors, five are orphans and are living with family. None of the infected children are living in institutions, according to Dr. Porras.

All the infected children receive medical attention and medication with a cost to them, all paid by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS).

Dr. Porras says that not all mothers infected with HIV or have AIDS pass on the infection to their children at birth, he estimates a 40% infection rate. In those cases, the newborns are treated to strengthen their immune system.

The medical doctor suggests that, to avoid the risk of infection to their newborns, pregnant women should get a test named "Elisa" on their first visit to the doctor, which can determine infection and can then commence treatment if necessary to avoid infection to the baby.

In an effort to provide the infected children a better quality of life, the Clínica de Infección por VIH en Niños in conjunction with the famous Spanish designer, Oscar de la Renta, a "Celebrity Fashion Show" will be held that will include politicians and local artists to raise funds for the clinic.

The show will be held on June 10 at the Hotel Corobící in La Sabana starting at 7:30pm and will cost us$30 per person.

Javier Iglesias, organizer of the event, said the money raised will be used to offer therapy and psychological help to the affected and their families, as well as help them with financial assistance.

The organizer is hoping that many Costa Ricans and foreigners alike will take part in the event and lend a helping hand.