Maldives becomes first country to achieve triple elimination of mother

Daijiworld Media Network – Male

Male, Oct 14: In a landmark global health achievement, the World Health Organization (WHO) has validated the Maldives for eliminating mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of hepatitis B, adding to its earlier success in eliminating HIV and syphilis. This makes the island nation the first in the world to achieve ‘triple elimination’.

“Maldives has shown that with strong political will and sustained investment in maternal and child health, elimination of these deadly diseases is possible,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This historic milestone provides hope and inspiration for countries worldwide.”

Mother-to-child transmission remains a major global challenge, affecting millions annually. In the WHO South-East Asia Region alone