Has the Maldives Become the World's First Country to Eradicate Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Maldives has made history by becoming the first country to achieve the triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. This monumental public health success highlights the importance of maternal and child health initiatives and sets a global benchmark for other nations.
Key Takeaways
- Maldives is the first nation globally to achieve the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
- Over 95% of pregnant women in the Maldives receive antenatal care.
- No babies were born with HIV or syphilis in 2022 and 2023.
- Strong political will and investments in health are crucial for achieving public health milestones.
- The WHO's validation of this achievement sets a global benchmark for other countries.
New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking achievement for public health, the Maldives has become the first nation globally to accomplish the ‘triple elimination’ of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis, according to a statement released by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday.
The Maldives has recently received validation from the WHO for its success in eliminating mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B. The nation had previously achieved WHO validation for the elimination of HIV and syphilis in 2019.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated, “The Maldives has demonstrated that with strong political will and consistent investment in maternal and child health, the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of these deadly diseases is attainable.”
He further mentioned, “This historic milestone offers hope and motivation for countries worldwide striving for similar achievements.”
Mother-to-child transmission results in infections that impact millions around the globe.
In the WHO South-East Asia Region, preliminary estimates suggest that in 2024, over 23,000 pregnant women will have syphilis, and more than 8,000 infants will be born with congenital syphilis.
Approximately 25,000 HIV-positive pregnant women need treatment to avert transmission to their infants, while hepatitis B affects over 42 million individuals in the region, as per WHO data.
Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge at the WHO South-East Asia Regional Office, emphasized, “This landmark accomplishment is a significant step towards ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’ by enhancing maternal and newborn health and prioritizing long-term well-being.”
In the Maldives, more than 95% of pregnant women have access to antenatal care, with nearly universal testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
Thanks to a robust immunization system, no infants were born with HIV or syphilis in 2022 and 2023. A national survey conducted in 2023 confirmed the absence of hepatitis B among young children in the first grade of school, exceeding elimination targets, according to the WHO.
Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim remarked, “This historic validation is a moment of great pride for the Maldives and a testament to our unwavering commitment to safeguarding mothers, children, and future generations,” while vowing to maintain this progress moving forward.
Point of View
I recognize the Maldives' achievement as a monumental step in public health. This remarkable success story serves as a beacon of hope and a model for other countries striving to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of infectious diseases. The dedicated efforts of the Maldivian government and healthcare professionals exemplify what can be accomplished with a focus on maternal and child health, underscoring the vital importance of sustained public health initiatives.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What diseases has the Maldives eliminated transmission of from mother to child?
The Maldives has successfully eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
How did the Maldives achieve this milestone?
The achievement was made possible through strong political will, sustained investment in maternal and child health, and robust healthcare systems.
What impact does mother-to-child transmission have globally?
Mother-to-child transmission affects millions of infants worldwide, leading to significant health challenges.
What is the role of the WHO in this achievement?
The WHO validated the Maldives' success in eliminating mother-to-child transmission, recognizing their efforts as a global benchmark.
What are the future commitments of the Maldives regarding this issue?
The Maldivian government pledges to sustain progress in protecting mothers and children from these diseases.
