NEWS

• The Maldives has been officially validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the first country globally to eliminate mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis.
• WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed this as a historic achievement in maternal and child health.

HIGHLIGHTS

Significance of Triple Elimination

• Definition: Triple elimination refers to stopping the transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis from mother to child.
• Impact:
  • Prevents serious newborn infections and long-term complications.
  • Contributes to reduced infant mortality.
  • Demonstrates that prevention strategies can effectively eradicate MTCT.

Strategies Adopted by Maldives

• Universal Antenatal Care:
  • Over 95% of pregnant women receive antenatal care.
  • Routine screening for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
• Timely Intervention:
  • Positive cases receive immediate treatment to prevent transmission.
• Vaccination:
  • Newborns are immunized against hepatitis B.
• Capacity Building & Awareness:
  • Training of healthcare workers.
  • Public awareness campaigns on MTCT prevention.

Regional and Global Context

• WHO South-East Asia Region:
  • ~42 million people live with hepatitis B.
  • ~25,000 HIV-positive pregnant women need treatment to prevent transmission.
• Maldives’ success provides a model for other nations.
• Shows that political will + robust healthcare systems = elimination of public health threats.

Role of Government and Healthcare System

• Government commitment through healthcare infrastructure and maternal services.
• Collaboration with international agencies ensured technical and operational support.
• Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim reaffirmed the country’s dedication to sustaining progress.

Conclusion:

• Maldives sets a global benchmark in maternal and child health, demonstrating that integrated healthcare strategies and policy focus can eliminate MTCT of major infections.