The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially certified the Maldives as the first country in the world to achieve triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of Hepatitis B, HIV, and Syphilis. The recognition marks a major milestone for global public health and the South-East Asia Region. WHO described the achievement as proof that strong primary health care, universal screening, and maternal care systems can make infectious disease elimination possible even for small island nations.
“Maldives has shown that with strong political will and sustained investment in maternal and child health, elimination of MTCT of these deadly diseases, and the suffering they bring, is possible,” said WHO Director-General.
MTCT remains a major cause of infection worldwide. In the WHO SEARO region alone, provisional estimates show that in 2024 more than 23,000 pregnant women had syphilis and over 8,000 infants were born with congenital syphilis. About 25,000 HIV-positive pregnant women required treatment to prevent transmission to their babies, while hepatitis B continues to affect over 42 million people in the region.
How the Maldives Achieved It?
Nationwide rollout of antenatal screening for HIV, syphilis, and Hepatitis B.
Over 95 percent coverage of antenatal care and skilled birth attendance.
Universal vaccination for newborns against Hepatitis B within 24 hours of birth.
Integration of maternal and child health with infection prevention programs across all health facilities.
Mother-to-child transmission accounts for most infections of HIV, Hepatitis B, and Syphilis in newborns. Triple elimination prevents lifelong illness, reduces infant mortality, and strengthens maternal health systems. The Maldives’ success follows WHO’s Global Triple Elimination Initiative, which encourages integrated approaches to reproductive, maternal, and child health. Several other countries, including Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, are now working toward certification.
The success is underpinned by the country’s universal health coverage, which guarantees free antenatal care, vaccines, and diagnostic services for all residents, including migrants. The Maldives allocates over 10 percent of its GDP to health and has developed strong partnerships among government agencies, private providers, civil society, and international organizations.
Looking ahead, the Maldives plans to strengthen its health system through digital health information, targeted interventions for key populations and migrants, private sector engagement, and enhanced laboratory quality management. WHO will continue to assist in sustaining elimination efforts as part of broader goals for maternal, child, and adolescent health.