Why in News? The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Denmark has become the first country in the European Union to eliminate vertical transmission of both HIV and syphilis from mothers to their babies. Denmark achieved this status by meeting stringent criteria for testing and treatment during pregnancy.
Background
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and syphilis are infections that can be passed from a pregnant woman to her child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. Without treatment, they can lead to serious health problems for infants. Prevention of mother‑to‑child transmission requires early testing, antiretroviral therapy or antibiotics, and supportive healthcare systems.
How Denmark achieved elimination
- High testing coverage: Nearly all pregnant women in Denmark are tested for HIV and syphilis. The WHO requires at least 95 % of women to be tested and treated to certify elimination.
- Low transmission rates: New cases of HIV or syphilis in infants are kept below 50 per 100 000 births, the threshold set by the WHO.
- Universal healthcare: Denmark provides free prenatal care and treatment. This ensures that infections are detected early and mothers receive appropriate therapy throughout pregnancy.
- Human rights‑based policies: Stigma‑free counselling and community engagement encourage women to access services. Health workers are trained to respect confidentiality and cultural sensitivities.
- Integration of services: The same clinics that provide antenatal care also offer testing and treatment, making it convenient for women.
The WHO’s validation recognises decades of investment in primary healthcare and public health education in Denmark. Other countries can adopt similar approaches to prevent congenital infections.
Sources: WHO press release on Denmark’s elimination of transmission
