In May 2024 PAHO celebrated the latest countries in the Americas that have received WHO certification of the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis (EMTCT). This certification is awarded to countries that have:
- Brought the mother-to-child transmission rate to under 5%
- Provided antenatal care and antiretroviral treatment to more than 90% of pregnant women
- Reported fewer than 50 new cases of congenital syphilis per 100,000 newborns
- Achieved an HIV case rate of fewer than 500 per 100,000 live births
Representatives from Belize, Jamaica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines joined a commemorative event in Kingston, Jamaica to highlight the significance of the achievement, a “testament” to years of “dedication, hard work, and collaboration” according to PAHO Director Dr Jarbas Barbosa.
The power of commitment
Speaking at the event, Dr Barbosa recognised the “remarkable resilience” that the three countries have demonstrated in the face of COVID-19 challenges.
“I trust that the celebration today will inspire other countries to reinvigorate their commitments.”
In 2010, countries in the Americas committed to the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis, endorsing the regional strategy that was updated in 2016. The achievement of these targets required strengthening prevention and treatments services, updating guidelines, and ensuring the effective screening, monitoring, and following-up of HIV and syphilis exposed individuals.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, contributed a video message to the event. In this he praised Beliz for integrating primary disease prevention and treatment into maternal and child health services, celebrated Jamaica for civil society organisations’ commitment to human rights, and congratulated St Vincent and the Grenadines investment into robust national laboratory structures. He also emphasised the importance of “sustained efforts” to prevent new infections.
“WHO and partners will continue to support all countries in the Americas to strengthen health systems, provide comprehensive services, and ensure the involvement of women in planning and service delivery.”
Global progress
So far, 19 countries and territories have received the certification of elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and/or syphilis; 11 of these are in the Americas. Cuba “made history” in 2015 by becoming the first country to achieve the dual elimination of HIV and syphilis. PAHO reports that new HIV infections among children in the Caribbean decreased by 25% between 2010 and 2022. In that time, annual notified cases decreased from 2,000 to 1,500.
Christine Stegling, UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director, celebrates a “great public health milestone” and the “global leadership” displayed by Caribbean countries in the “elimination agenda to achieve an HIV free generation”.
“The end of AIDS is an opportunity for a uniquely powerful legacy for today’s leaders.”
UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean Gary Conville welcomes the commitment of the three countries.
“We are confident that this milestone will be a catalyst for other countries in the region to pursue the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission Agenda towards the 2030 target: No child left behind in the progress to end AIDS.”
Ministers of health
Minister of Health and Wellness in Belize is Kevin Bernard, who recognises the “extremely significant accomplishment for the people and country”.
“The activities leading up to this momentous goal were not always easy; however, with the commitment and motivation of our health care workers, in all areas of health, this has become a reality. We continue to work towards achieving public health goals for a healthier and productive Belize.”
Dr Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness of Jamaica, is proud of the “win that underscores protecting the health of all”.
“It is also exemplary of the extraordinary progress being made in our maternal health care. What’s more, it is vitally important that we consolidate the gains made from this achievement, especially through continued community engagement and partnership in the public health interest of all.”
Minister of Health, Wellness, and the Environment for St Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Clair Jimmy Prince, commends the “dedication and commitment” of healthcare workers on achieving this certification.
“This achievement signals to the world that ending paediatric HIV and congenital syphilis through the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis is achievable. The Ministry will continue to work towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.”
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