WHO Certifies The Bahamas For Eliminating Mother-To-Child Transmission Of HIV

Nassau, The Bahamas — In a landmark public health achievement, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially certified The Bahamas for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, marking a significant milestone in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

The certification means that The Bahamas has successfully reduced the transmission of HIV from mothers to their babies to levels so low that it is no longer considered a public health threat. This accomplishment reflects years of sustained investment in maternal health services, early testing, and access to antiretroviral therapy for pregnant women.

Mother-to-child transmission, also known as vertical transmission, can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Without intervention, transmission rates can reach 15–45%. However, with effective healthcare systems and timely treatment, this risk can be reduced to below 2%.

Health officials credit the country’s integrated approach—combining routine antenatal screening, immediate treatment initiation, and continuous follow-up care—as a key driver of this success. The Bahamas’ achievement also highlights the importance of strong political will, community engagement, and equitable access to healthcare services.

The WHO validation process is rigorous, requiring countries to meet strict epidemiological and programmatic criteria over a sustained period. This includes maintaining low transmission rates and ensuring high coverage of HIV testing and treatment among pregnant women.

Public health experts say this milestone sends a powerful signal to other countries, particularly in regions still battling high HIV transmission rates. It demonstrates that eliminating mother-to-child transmission is achievable with the right mix of policy, investment, and healthcare delivery.

While celebrating the progress, the WHO and local health authorities emphasise that continued vigilance is essential. Sustaining elimination status requires ongoing commitment to prevention, testing, and treatment services, alongside efforts to address stigma and health inequities.

The Bahamas now joins a growing list of countries that have reached this global health target, reinforcing momentum toward ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.