WHO launches regional roadmap for triple elimination of mother-to-child-transmission of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B

Saima Wazed, the Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia, on Thursday highlighted the significant progress made in the Asia-Pacific region in protecting children and families from HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.

Speaking at the launch of the regional roadmap for the triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of these infections for the 2024-2030 period, Wazed stressed the importance of continued efforts in addressing these preventable diseases. 

Wazed expressed her pleasure in launching the new roadmap and acknowledged the progress made in recent decades.
“Over the past few decades, the Asia-Pacific region has made excellent progress in protecting children and their families from these three threats,” Wazed said.

She credited the progress to the commitment of governments, donors, health professionals, and researchers.
However, she also pointed out that despite the progress, children and adolescents remain disproportionately affected by these preventable infections.

Wazed highlighted that collaboration and integration of services across health sectors are essential for improving accessibility and outcomes for women, children, and their families.

As part of the celebrations for World Health Day, Wazed underscored the significance of this year’s theme: “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.”

She stressed that the effort to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B embodies this theme and represents the region’s commitment to the health of future generations.