Maldives Becomes First Country To Eliminate Mother-To-Child Transmission Of HIV, Syphilis And Hepatitis B
Photo: MV+
The Maldives has made global history by becoming the first country to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, a milestone officially recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Congratulations #Maldives 🇲🇻 for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of #hepatitisB!
The country is also maintaining
🏆 Elimination of mother-to-child transmission HIV
🏆 Elimination of mother-to-child transmission syphilis
(validated in 2019)
This historic achievement… pic.twitter.com/1L90LDVDMj— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) October 13, 2025advertisement
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The achievement marks one of the most significant milestones in the country’s public health history and reflects decades of commitment to combating communicable diseases. The WHO announced the recognition during the Regional Committee meeting for South-East Asia, held in Sri Lanka.
The Maldives’ success is the result of sustained national efforts through the National Vaccination Campaign, launched in 1976. The country introduced the hepatitis B vaccine in 1993 as part of its National Vaccination Programme, with the first dose administered within 24 hours of birth. In addition, screening for HIV and hepatitis B during pregnancy was made compulsory to prevent transmission.
These sustained prevention and immunisation efforts led to the successful control of hepatitis B transmission after 32 years of continuous work. The Maldives had previously achieved the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of syphilis and HIV in 2019, and the inclusion of hepatitis B now establishes the country as the first in the world to attain ‘triple elimination’.
Health professionals across the Maldives, from Malé to the outer atolls, have played a vital role in achieving this milestone by ensuring safe maternal and infant health practices. The accomplishment highlights the strength of the Maldives’ public health systems, supported by collaboration with WHO, private healthcare providers, civil society, and international partners.
Following the announcement, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu expressed appreciation to health professionals, communities, and partners for their dedication and contribution. He described the recognition as a historic moment that reflects the Maldives’ commitment to protecting maternal and child health.
The WHO noted that the achievement demonstrates how sustained investment in preventive healthcare, strong intersectoral collaboration, and community engagement can enable even small island nations to overcome major health challenges. The Maldives’ success now stands as a model for countries across the world pursuing similar public health goals.
