Sri Lanka Marches Ahead and achieves Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and Syphilis

Abstract

AbstractIn November 2019 Sri Lanka become the third country in the WHO South-East Asia Region to be validated for elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV and congenital syphilis. The programme for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV was started in 2002. In 2018, the performance of the EMTCT programme met all and even exceeded 95% of the targets for ante-natal care attendance, early testing and treatment for both HIV and syphilis. Prevalence among infants was well below the required target of 2%, including at the national level as well as the lowest-performing districts. Key factors that helped Sri Lanka to achieve elimination include quick updating of evidence-based guidelines, a comprehensive approach to prevent infections among women, strong multisectoral coordination, and adequate financial support. Ultimately, it is strong political commitment and a strong national programme for provision of high-quality health care to all citizens in the country, coupled with a strong primary health care infrastructure. Integration of HIV care into existing STI services in the country and an all-inclusive approach under universal health care have been a strong factor in reaching out to people living with HIV. Keeping HIV prevalence low has been an important factor in preventing HIV infection among women. Sri Lanka’s achievement once again demonstrates the country’s commitment to public health and builds on the strong foundation of primary health care services that it laid several decades ago.