October 14, 2025: The Maldives has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first country in the world to accomplish triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. This remarkable public health achievement demonstrates the country’s strong healthcare infrastructure, commitment to maternal and child health, and dedication to ensuring universal access to quality medical services.
The World Health Organization officially validated the Maldives’ success after years of sustained efforts, integrated healthcare programs, and nationwide vaccination coverage. The triple elimination means that the Maldives has successfully interrupted the transmission of these three infectious diseases from mothers to their newborns, ensuring healthier generations ahead.
This milestone builds upon the country’s previous success in 2019, when it was recognized for eliminating MTCT of HIV and syphilis. By adding hepatitis B to the list, the Maldives has now achieved the highest global standard in maternal and child healthcare.
According to public health experts, one of the major factors behind this success is the Maldives’ strong primary healthcare system and universal health coverage, which guarantees that every woman, regardless of location or income, has access to antenatal care, screening, and treatment. The country’s healthcare professionals worked tirelessly to ensure that more than 95% of pregnant women received early antenatal checkups, testing, and follow-up care.
The vaccination drive also played a key role. Every newborn in the Maldives receives a hepatitis B vaccine within the first 24 hours of life, a crucial step that prevents transmission of the virus from infected mothers. Additionally, continuous awareness campaigns and free screening for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B have ensured timely diagnosis and treatment, minimizing the risk of infection spread.
In recent years, the Maldives has not reported a single new case of pediatric HIV or congenital syphilis. Moreover, nationwide surveys have found no cases of hepatitis B among young school entrants, proving that the prevention system is working effectively.
Health authorities attribute this success to the government’s prioritization of maternal and child healthcare in national policy. With continuous training for healthcare workers, advanced laboratory networks, and efficient vaccine delivery systems, the Maldives has built a robust foundation to sustain its achievements. The country’s collaboration with global health organizations has also ensured that international standards were met during the validation process.
Leaders in the healthcare community praised the Maldives for its strong political will, coordinated national strategies, and community involvement. They noted that this success provides inspiration for other nations in South Asia and beyond to strengthen their public health systems and aim for similar eliminations.
Experts also highlighted the importance of maintaining vigilance to sustain this achievement. Ongoing monitoring, consistent immunization coverage, and accessible testing for all expectant mothers will be key to ensuring that the diseases do not re-emerge. The Maldives government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining these high standards, ensuring that every child is born free from these infections.
This accomplishment also underscores the importance of equitable healthcare, where services are extended not only to citizens but also to all residents, including migrant workers. By adopting an inclusive approach, the Maldives has demonstrated that public health goals can be achieved through fairness, accessibility, and proactive planning.
Health experts have described this milestone as a symbol of hope and progress in the fight against preventable diseases. The achievement reinforces the idea that early detection, comprehensive care, and community awareness can lead to significant health breakthroughs. The Maldives’ example is now being viewed as a model for other nations striving to achieve similar results.
In the coming years, the Maldives plans to continue strengthening maternal and child health programs, expand digital health systems, and enhance healthcare access across its islands. Officials have emphasized that sustaining triple elimination will require continuous investment and cooperation among communities, health workers, and international partners.
This landmark success not only highlights the Maldives’ healthcare excellence but also sets a global benchmark for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of infectious diseases. It reflects the nation’s vision for a healthier, safer, and more inclusive future, where every child has the right to begin life free from preventable illnesses.
Summary
Maldives becomes the first country to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, achieving a global health milestone through vaccination, screening, and strong maternal care systems.