Brazil makes history as WHO certifies end of mother-to-child HIV transmission

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by WHO, click this post to read the original article.

Brazil has become the most populous country in the Americas to be validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV. This achievement highlights Brazil’s dedication to universal, free healthcare through its Unified Health System (SUS), grounded in strong primary care and a commitment to human rights. According to WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Brazil’s progress demonstrates how sustained political will and equitable healthcare access can ensure every child is born free of HIV and every mother receives the care she needs.

To earn this recognition, Brazil met WHO’s strict requirements for EMTCT validation. This included reducing HIV transmission from mother to child to below 2%, ensuring more than 95% of pregnant women received prenatal care, regular HIV testing, and timely treatment. The country also maintained high-quality health services, strong data systems, and a solid focus on human rights, gender equality, and community involvement. Brazil took a phased approach, starting EMTCT certification with larger municipalities while using WHO and PAHO guidelines tailored to local conditions.

This milestone was celebrated in Brasília with senior officials including President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Health Minister Alexandre Padilha, and PAHO Director Dr Jarbas Barbosa. It’s part of a broader effort known as the EMTCT Plus Initiative, which aims to eliminate not only HIV transmission but also syphilis, hepatitis B, and congenital Chagas. Over the past decade, this initiative has helped avoid more than 50,000 pediatric HIV infections across the Americas.

Globally, Brazil is now one of 19 countries and territories recognized for EMTCT of HIV, joining 12 others in the Region of the Americas. Previous recognitions include Cuba, the first country ever validated in 2015, and several Caribbean nations. Outside the Americas, the list includes countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. Brazil’s success shows what you can achieve with a strong healthcare system, community engagement, and a commitment to equity and human rights.