Commonwealth _ Several CARICOM countries, including Belize, Jamaica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, have reached a significant milestone in public health. They’ve been officially certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) for successfully eliminating the transmission of HIV and syphilis from mother to child. This accomplishment was commemorated at a special event organized by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Kingston, Jamaica. The event, supported by UNICEF and UNAIDS, saw the participation of health ministers from the three nations.
Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, hailed this achievement as the result of years of dedication, hard work, and collaboration among governments, healthcare professionals, and communities. He also applauded the resilience demonstrated by these countries, especially in adapting and sustaining essential services amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Barbosa expressed hope that this success would inspire other countries to renew their commitments towards creating a generation free of HIV and congenital syphilis.
The commitment to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis in the Americas was made in 2010, with countries endorsing a regional strategy. This strategy was updated in 2016 under the PAHO Plan of Action for the Prevention and Control of HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections. To achieve elimination targets, countries focused on strengthening prevention and treatment services within primary healthcare and maternal and child health systems. This involved updating guidelines, ensuring effective screening of pregnant women, monitoring cases, and providing follow-up care for HIV and syphilis-exposed infants.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended Belize for integrating primary disease prevention and treatment into maternal and child health services. He also praised Jamaica for its civil society organizations’ commitment to human rights and lauded St. Vincent and the Grenadines for investing in robust national laboratory structures. Dr. Tedros emphasized the importance of sustaining efforts to prevent new infections, stating that WHO and its partners will continue supporting all countries in the Americas to strengthen health systems, provide comprehensive services, and involve women in planning and service delivery.
Globally, 19 countries and territories have attained certification for eradicating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and/or syphilis, with 11 situated in the Americas. Cuba set a historic precedent in 2015 as the inaugural nation to achieve dual elimination of HIV and syphilis. This groundbreaking feat was subsequently replicated by Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Montserrat, and St. Kitts and Nevis in 2017, with Dominica joining their ranks in 2020. These achievements underscore the region’s concerted efforts and advancements in public health, serving as notable milestones in the ongoing global fight against infectious diseases.
In the Caribbean, the number of new HIV infections among children has decreased by 25% between 2010 and 2022. During this period, annual notified cases declined from 2,000 to 1,500. These statistics reflect the success of concerted efforts in prevention, treatment, and healthcare delivery across the region.
The journey towards eliminating the transmission of HIV and syphilis from mother to child is a testament to the power of collective effort, marked by collaboration, innovation, and unwavering determination. It emphasizes the crucial need for sustained investments in healthcare systems, along with the imperative for inclusive policies and programs that prioritize the health and well-being of women, children, and families.
As the global battle against HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases persists, the accomplishments of nations like Belize, Jamaica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines shine brightly, serving as guiding lights of hope and inspiration. Their success stories illustrate what can be achieved through steadfast dedication, collaborative partnerships, and a shared commitment to advancing public health initiatives on both regional and international scales.
