The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially validated Brazil for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV — a landmark accomplishment that makes Brazil the most populous country in the Americas to achieve this public health milestone.
The certification reflects Brazil’s sustained commitment to universal and free health services through its Unified Health System (SUS), underpinned by strong primary health care and respect for human rights.
“Eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV is a major public health achievement for any country…Every child can be born free of HIV and every mother receives the care she deserves,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Criteria Met for Validation
Brazil fulfilled all WHO criteria for eliminating vertical HIV transmission, including:
- Reducing transmission rates below 2%;
- Achieving over 95% coverage in prenatal care, HIV testing, and treatment for pregnant women;
- Demonstrating strong health data systems, quality services, and community engagement.
The validation process involved independent expert evaluations and was supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), with findings reviewed and endorsed by WHO’s Global Validation Advisory Committee.
Historic Context & Broader Initiative
The certification took place during a ceremony in Brasília, attended by Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Health Minister Alexandre Padilha, and PAHO leadership.
Brazil is now one of 19 countries and territories worldwide recognized by WHO for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, with 12 located in the Americas.
This milestone is part of the broader EMTCT Plus Initiative aimed at eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and Chagas disease, supporting global progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat.
