Maldives has received certification at the 79th World Health Assembly recognising the country as the first in the world to achieve triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B.

Minister of Health, Family and Welfare Geela Ali received the certification during the assembly, with the Ministry  describing the milestone as a major achievement for the country’s healthcare system and maternal and child health services.

The certification follows the World Health Organization’s 2025 validation confirming the Maldives had eliminated mother-to-child transmission of all three diseases. The Maldives had previously achieved elimination of HIV and syphilis transmission in 2019, before hepatitis B was added to complete the “triple elimination” benchmark.

According to national health data, more than 95 per cent of pregnant women in the Maldives receive antenatal care, alongside near-universal screening for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B. Authorities have also maintained high immunisation coverage nationwide, including timely hepatitis B vaccinations for newborns.

WHO had stated that the achievement reflected sustained investment in maternal and child healthcare, universal health coverage and integrated healthcare services. National surveys conducted in recent years recorded no new HIV or syphilis infections among infants, while a 2023 survey found zero hepatitis B infections among first-grade school children.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had earlier described the achievement as a historic milestone for the Maldives and thanked healthcare professionals, communities and international partners for their contribution to the accomplishment. The Government has also stated that efforts will continue to strengthen healthcare systems and maintain the country’s elimination status.