By Zoila Palma: The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Brazil for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, making it the most populous country in the Americas to reach the milestone.
The achievement reflects Brazil’s long-standing commitment to universal and free health care through its Unified Health System (SUS), supported by a strong primary health-care network and a focus on human rights and equity.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the validation as a major public health accomplishment, noting that Brazil’s size and complexity make the achievement especially significant.
He said the country has demonstrated that sustained political commitment and equitable access to quality health services can ensure children are born free of HIV while mothers receive appropriate care.
The milestone was formally recognized during a ceremony in Brasília attended by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, senior health officials, and representatives of regional and international health agencies.
Brazil met all WHO criteria for validation, including reducing vertical transmission of HIV to below two percent and achieving more than 95 percent coverage for prenatal care, HIV testing, and timely treatment for pregnant women living with HIV.
The country adopted a phased, subnational approach, first certifying states and municipalities with large populations, while maintaining nationwide standards. Independent experts, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), evaluated data, health services, and laboratory systems before WHO’s Global Validation Advisory Committee confirmed the achievement.
The validation places Brazil among 19 countries and territories worldwide recognized by WHO for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, including 12 in the Americas.
The post International News: World Health Organization validates Brazil for eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Brazil for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, making it the most populous country in the Americas to reach the milestone. The achievement reflects Brazil’s long-standing commitment to universal and free health care through its Unified Health System (SUS), supported by a strong primary health-care network
The post International News: World Health Organization validates Brazil for eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
