Colombo, Oct. 13 -- The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday validated the Maldives as the first country in the world to achieve the triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.

According to an official release, the island nation had already received WHO validation for EMTCT of HIV and syphilis in 2019.

With this year's validation for hepatitis B, the Maldives has become the first country worldwide to receive all three certifications, reflecting its long-standing commitment to maternal and child health.

Congratulating the Maldives on this public health milestone, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "The Maldives has shown that with strong political will and sust...