Maldives Becomes First Country to Achieve Historic ‘Triple Elimination’ of Mother-to-Child Disease Transmission
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – In a landmark public health achievement, the Maldives has been validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the first country in the world to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
The historic “triple elimination” was officially announced on October 13, 2025, at the WHO South-East Asia Regional Committee meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This builds upon the nation’s previous success, having been certified for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis back in 2019.
“This historic milestone provides hope and inspiration for countries everywhere working towards the same goal,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Maldives has shown that with strong political will and sustained investment in maternal and child health, elimination of mother-to-child transmission of these deadly diseases, and the suffering they bring, is possible.”
The achievement was celebrated by Maldivian leaders on social media. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu posted on X: “Today, the Maldives makes history. We are proud to be the first country in the world to achieve ‘triple elimination’… My heartfelt appreciation goes out to all health professionals, communities, and partners whose unwavering dedication made this historic achievement possible.”
The WHO attributed this success to the Maldives’ robust and integrated healthcare system. Key factors include universal health coverage, with over 95% of pregnant women receiving antenatal care and nearly universal testing for all three diseases. The country also maintains a strong immunization program, with over 95% of newborns receiving a timely hepatitis B birth dose.
The results are tangible: no babies were born with HIV or syphilis in 2022 and 2023, and a 2023 national survey confirmed zero hepatitis B among young children.
Health Minister H.E. Ahmed Nazim Ibrahim called the validation “a moment of immense pride for the Maldives and a reflection of our nation’s steadfast commitment to protecting mothers, children and future generations.”
This milestone positions the Indian Ocean archipelago as a global model for integrated maternal and child health strategies, demonstrating the power of sustained investment and universal healthcare in defeating major diseases.
