Maldives Sets Historic Global Benchmark with Triple EMTCT
The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated the Maldives for eliminating mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of hepatitis B while already maintaining EMTCT validations for HIV and syphilis since 2019. This makes the island nation the first to achieve a true “triple elimination,” a milestone in public health that could guide efforts in other countries aiming to protect newborns from preventable infections.
Why This Milestone Matters
Eliminating mother-to-child transmission of these diseases helps avert lifelong health problems for children and reduces caregiver burdens. In the WHO South-East Asia Region, 2024 saw thousands of pregnancies affected by syphilis and HIV, as well as millions living with hepatitis B globally. The Maldives’ success demonstrates that robust health systems, universal coverage, and sustained investment can end preventable congenital infections.
Integrated Care, Universal Coverage, and Community Support
Key to the Maldives’ achievement is an integrated approach to maternal and child health. More than 95% of pregnant women receive antenatal care, with comprehensive testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. The country also sustains universal immunization, guaranteeing timely hepatitis B birth doses and complete vaccine coverage. In recent years, no babies were born with HIV or syphilis in 2022 and 2023, and a 2023 national survey found zero hepatitis B among young children, surpassing elimination targets.
Strong Policy, Investment, and Universal Access
Universal health coverage anchors these gains, providing free antenatal care, vaccines, and diagnostic services for all residents—including migrants. Government investment exceeds 10% of GDP, underscoring the long-term commitment necessary to sustain EMTCT achievements. Health officials emphasize that eliminating these infections is a pledge to future generations, not just a statistical milestone.
Statements of Support and Forward-Looking Goals
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised the Maldives for its political will and sustained investment. WHO South-East Asia Regional Office leadership highlighted this milestone as a stepping stone toward broader maternal and child health goals and universal health coverage. Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim called the triple elimination a testament to national resilience and a continued pledge to equitable, high-quality health services for all island residents.
What Happens Next?
Even after achieving triple EMTCT, the Maldives plans to deepen its health system resilience by incorporating digital health information, expanding targeted interventions for key populations and migrants, and strengthening private sector engagement and laboratory quality management. WHO will continue technical support to sustain gains and advance broader health objectives for mothers, children, and adolescents.
Global Implications
The Maldives’ achievement sets a compelling example for other nations pursuing EMTCT across HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. It demonstrates that with coordinated policy, community outreach, and sustained financing, triple elimination can become a reality, translating into healthier futures for millions of children worldwide.
