Denmark has reached a significant global health milestone after the World Health Organization confirmed it has eliminated the transmission of HIV and syphilis from mothers to their newborns.
The certification follows a comprehensive assessment by WHO’s validation committees, which reviewed Denmark’s maternal health data and confirmed that the country met international targets for sustained low transmission rates and high coverage of prenatal testing and treatment between 2021 and 2024.
WHO officials said the achievement reflects strong political commitment, universal healthcare access, and an integrated maternal and child health system that ensures routine screening during pregnancy. They noted that maintaining high testing rates among expectant mothers and providing timely treatment were central to reaching the elimination benchmarks.
Health authorities described the recognition as the result of decades of investment in public health infrastructure, reliable data systems, laboratory capacity, and equitable access to care.
The country’s rights-based healthcare approach was also highlighted as a key factor in protecting women and children.
Denmark’s health officials welcomed the certification, describing it as both an honour and a responsibility. They expressed commitment to sustaining progress and continuing efforts toward broader disease elimination goals.
WHO stated that Denmark’s success serves as a model for other countries working to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of preventable infections through strengthened healthcare systems and consistent monitoring.
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