Belize received WHO certification for eliminating the mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis in 2023, followed by Jamaica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2024. This milestone was marked at an event organized by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Kingston, Jamaica, on 7 May 2024 with support from UNICEF and UNAIDS and with the participation of health ministers from the three countries.
To meet elimination targets, the countries focused on strengthening prevention and treatment services within primary health care and in maternal and child health, updating guidelines, ensuring the effective screening of pregnant women, monitoring of cases, and follow-up of infants exposed to HIV and syphilis.
“This achievement is a testament to years of dedication, hard work, and collaboration among governments, health professionals and communities”, said PAHO Director, Dr Jarbas Barbosa.
SOURCE: PAHO News, 7 May 2024.