Maldives Achieves World's First Triple Elimination of Mother-To-Child Diseases

The Maldives has become the first country globally to be validated for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis, a groundbreaking public health accomplishment confirmed by the World Health Organization (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Maldives becomes the first country to achieve 'triple elimination' of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B

Go to source). This milestone adds to the nation’s earlier validation in 2019 for eliminating HIV and syphilis transmission, marking a historic ‘triple elimination’.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, emphasized that the Maldives has demonstrated how determined political leadership and continuous investment in maternal and child healthcare can make elimination of these life-threatening diseases a reality. He called this milestone a beacon of hope for other countries striving for similar goals.

Burden of Transmission and Regional Estimates

Mother-to-child transmission continues to cause widespread infections worldwide. In the World Health Organization South-East Asia Region, preliminary data for 2024 revealed that over 23,000 pregnant women had syphilis, leading to more than 8,000 infants born with congenital syphilis.

Additionally, around 25,000 pregnant women living with HIV needed interventions to prevent vertical transmission. Hepatitis B remains a critical concern, impacting over 42 million individuals across the region.

Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge at the WHO South-East Asia Regional Office, praised the Maldives’ unwavering efforts toward universal health coverage. She highlighted the nation’s commitment to ensuring high-quality, equitable care across its dispersed islands, benefiting all, including migrant populations. She commended the achievement as a crucial step toward enhancing maternal and newborn health and preventing avoidable deaths.

Role of Integrated Healthcare and Vaccination Coverage

The Maldives has developed a holistic, integrated approach to maternal and child health services over the years.

More than 95 percent of pregnant women undergo antenatal screening, which includes near-universal testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. The nation’s immunization program is robust, with more than 95 percent of newborns receiving hepatitis B vaccination at birth, ensuring protection from chronic infection.

By 2022 and 2023, there were no recorded cases of HIV or syphilis in newborns, and a national survey in 2023 confirmed that no young children entering school carried hepatitis B.

These outcomes exceed elimination thresholds and are supported by comprehensive health coverage that ensures free access to vaccines, diagnostic services, and antenatal care for all, including migrant populations. The Maldives invests over 10 percent of its Gross Domestic Product in the healthcare sector, underpinning these achievements.

Commitment to Long-Term Health and Partnerships

Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim described the validation as a moment of national pride and a reaffirmation of the government’s pledge to prioritize the health of mothers, children, and future generations.

He emphasized that achieving triple elimination represents more than just a medical milestone, it signals an ongoing investment in high-quality and equitable healthcare for all.

This success story is also a result of strong collaboration between government institutions, private healthcare providers, civil society groups, and international organizations. Together, they have worked to enhance screening programs, deliver consistent healthcare services, and offer technical support and outreach throughout the country.

Digital Integration and Inclusive Care Expansion

The Maldives aims to sustain its success by further enhancing its health systems. This includes implementing digital health records, expanding services for vulnerable and migrant populations, improving collaboration with the private sector, and boosting laboratory quality standards.

The World Health Organization will continue to assist the Maldives in these efforts to maintain progress and reach broader health goals, especially concerning maternal, child, and adolescent care.

In conclusion, the Maldives has achieved a world-first by eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis, an extraordinary accomplishment built on strong political will, integrated healthcare, and universal health coverage.

This historic milestone not only sets a global precedent but also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to a healthier future for all mothers and children.

Reference:

1. Maldives becomes the first country to achieve ‘triple elimination’ of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B - (https://www.who.int/news/item/13-10-2025-maldives-becomes-the-first-country-to-achieve-triple-elimination-of-mother-to-child-transmission-of-hiv-syphilis-and-hepatitis-b)

Source-Medindia