India, Dec. 21 -- The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Brazil for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, making it the most populous country in the Americas to achieve this historic milestone.

This accomplishment reflects Brazil's long-standing commitment to universal and free access to health services through its Unified Health System (SUS), anchored in a strong primary health-care system and respect for human rights, WHO said.

"Eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV is a major public health achievement for any country, especially for a country as large and complex as Brazil," said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. "Brazil has shown that with sustained political commitme...