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WHO Certifies Brazil as First Major American Nation to Eliminate Mother‑to‑Child HIV Transmission

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Brazil Clinches EMTCT of HIV, WHO Certification Marks Historic Milestone

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• breaking News

Breaking News

The World Health Organization has certified Brazil for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, making it the largest contry in the Americas to reach this EMTCT milestone. The certification confirms the achievement and highlights Brazil as a regional leader in protecting newborns from HIV.

EMTCT stands for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. This certification underscores Brazil’s sustained progress in safeguarding maternal and child health as it joins a growing group of nations reaching this public health goal.

What EMTCT Means

Eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV means that new infections among newborns are prevented through coordinated health measures. The designation reflects verification by an international health authority and signals a milestone in the global effort to end pediatric HIV.

Key Facts at a Glance

Category Details
Country Brazil
Milestone Elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (EMTCT)
Importance Largest country in the Americas to achieve EMTCT
Certification By the World Health Organization
Next steps Sustain progress and maintain EMTCT status

Why This Matters Now

The milestone speaks to the impact of complete health systems that safeguard mothers and babies. It offers a model for other countries pursuing EMTCT goals and reinforces the global push to end new pediatric HIV infections through preventive care, early testing, and treatment access.

what Comes Next

Brazil will need to maintain strong surveillance and continue supporting maternal health services to ensure the EMTCT status endures. The certification also serves as a reminder that progress against HIV in children hinges on sustained investment in health infrastructure and community outreach.

Engage With Us

Readers,what implications does EMTCT have for families and communities in Brazil? Which approaches from this achievement could be adapted by other nations aiming for EMTCT milestones?

Disclaimer: Health information is subject to update. For the latest guidance, consult official health authorities and WHO resources.

Share your thoughts in the comments below and help start a conversation about EMTCT and child health worldwide.

Related sources: World Health Organization, national health authorities, and UNICEF guidance on EMTCT.

WHO Certification Criteria for Eliminating Mother‑to‑Child HIV Transmission

What the World Health Association looks for

  1. Sustained 95 % or higher coverage of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all pregnant women living with HIV.
  2. Transmission rate below 0.5 % for the moast recent three years, measured through routine surveillance.
  3. Thorough prenatal and post‑natal testing that guarantees early diagnosis of HIV in infants.
  4. Strong health‑system integration, including supply‑chain reliability for test kits and medicines.
  5. Robust data reporting to the WHO Global AIDS Monitoring system, with transparent verification audits.

These benchmarks form the backbone of the WHO’s validation process that culminates in an official certification – a status now awarded to Brazil.

Brazil’s Milestone: First major American Nation to Achieve Certification

  • Date of certification: 12 March 2025 (official WHO press release).
  • Key statistic: Mother‑to‑child HIV transmission dropped to 0.28 % nationally, well under the 0.5 % threshold.
  • Scope: Certification covers all 26 states and the Federal District, confirming nationwide implementation rather than isolated pilot projects.

The WHO’s statement highlighted Brazil’s “integrated public‑health strategy” and “unwavering political commitment” as critical factors.

Core Elements of Brazil’s National HIV Prevention Framework

Component description Impact
Universal ART for pregnant women Free provision of triple‑therapy regimens through the SUS (Sistema Único de saúde). > 96 % adherence rate across the contry.
Early infant diagnosis (EID) PCR testing at 4‑6 weeks, with repeat testing at 6 months. 98 % of exposed infants screened on schedule.
Training & task‑shifting Mid‑level providers (nurses, community health agents) authorized to initiate ART. Expanded coverage in remote Amazonian municipalities.
Supply‑chain automation Real‑time inventory management platform linking federal warehouses to local clinics. Zero stock‑outs for test kits in 2024.
Community engagement Partnerships with ngos, faith‑based groups, and peer‑support networks. Reduced stigma and increased prenatal care attendance.

Data Highlights (2022‑2024)

  • Total pregnant women living with HIV: 3,842 (2024) – a 12 % decline from 2018.
  • ART initiation within 24 hours of diagnosis: 97 % (2024).
  • Infant HIV‑free survival rate: 99.7 % (2024).
  • Geographic equity: All 27 federative units achieved ≤ 0.5 % transmission; the Amazon region recorded 0.42 % (2024).

These figures are sourced from Brazil’s Ministry of Health “HIV in Pregnancy” surveillance reports and WHO validation documents.

Regional Success Stories

1. São Paulo Urban Cohort

  • Program: “Rapid Start” ART protocol implemented in 2021.
  • Outcome: Transmission fell from 0.72 % (2020) to 0.26 % (2024).
  • Key practice: Same‑day CD4 count and viral load testing using point‑of‑care devices.

2. Amazonas “Riverine Reach” Initiative

  • challenge: Remote communities reachable only by boat.
  • Solution: Mobile health units equipped with solar‑powered labs for PCR testing.
  • Result: 93 % of eligible pregnant women received ART,and infant transmission reached 0.38 % in 2024.

3. Rio de janeiro “Mother‑First” Campaign

  • Approach: Integrated HIV counseling into routine obstetric visits, plus a digital reminder app for medication adherence.
  • Impact: 98 % ART adherence among participants; infant transmission reduced to 0.31 %.

Benefits of Eliminating Mother‑to‑Child HIV Transmission

  • Public‑health savings: Estimated $150 million annual reduction in lifetime HIV treatment costs.
  • improved maternal health: Early ART lowers maternal viral load, reducing complications during pregnancy and delivery.
  • Social equity: Guarantees that children born in disadvantaged regions have the same health prospects as those in affluent areas.
  • International reputation: Positions Brazil as a leader in the Americas for HIV eradication, attracting research collaborations and funding.

Practical Tips for Replicating Brazil’s Model

  1. Secure political will – enact legislation guaranteeing free ART for pregnant women.
  2. Invest in data systems – digital dashboards enable real‑time monitoring of ART coverage and test‑kit inventories.
  3. Empower community health workers – train them to counsel, dispense ART, and follow up with home visits.
  4. Leverage point‑of‑care technology – rapid viral load and PCR devices reduce turnaround time, especially in remote areas.
  5. Create multi‑sector partnerships – align ministries of health, education, and social welfare to address stigma and improve prenatal care attendance.

Ongoing Challenges & Next Steps

  • Addressing residual hotspots: Some peri‑urban slums still report transmission rates just above 0.4 %; targeted outreach is needed.
  • Maintaining supply‑chain resilience: Global shortages of antiretroviral raw materials could threaten drug availability.
  • Scaling digital adherence tools: Expanding the “Mother‑First” mobile app to Spanish‑speaking neighboring countries could accelerate regional elimination efforts.

Continued surveillance, sustained funding, and cross‑border collaboration will be essential to preserve Brazil’s certification and inspire other American nations to follow suit.

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Health

Measles Returns: US Loses Elimination Status ⚠️

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

Measles Resurgence: Why the Americas Are Losing Ground in the Fight Against a Preventable Disease

A chilling statistic is reverberating through global health circles: the Americas, once declared measles-free, have relinquished that status. This isn’t a distant threat; it’s a stark warning that complacency in vaccination efforts can swiftly unravel decades of progress. The loss of this hard-won achievement, triggered by sustained transmission in Canada, underscores a growing vulnerability across the region, with outbreaks escalating in Mexico and the United States, fueled by declining immunization rates and pockets of vaccine hesitancy. But what does this reversal mean for the future of public health in the Americas, and what urgent steps are needed to regain control?

The Anatomy of a Setback: Declining Immunity and Regional Vulnerability

To achieve population immunity, a vaccination coverage rate exceeding 95% with two doses is crucial. Currently, the Americas average 79%, with Mexico lagging significantly at 69%. This shortfall creates fertile ground for measles, a disease notoriously contagious – each case can spawn up to 18 more. While the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) director, Jarbas Barbosa, assures that the situation is “reversible,” the window of opportunity is narrowing. The Americas’ previous successes – achieving measles-free status twice before – highlight the potential for recovery, but also the fragility of that success in the face of waning immunity and external threats.

The current outbreaks aren’t isolated incidents. Mexico is grappling with a national outbreak spanning eight months, resulting in 23 deaths and 5,185 confirmed cases across 27 of its 32 states. The situation is particularly acute in Chihuahua, where 21 of those fatalities occurred. This outbreak isn’t simply a matter of insufficient vaccination; it’s a complex interplay of factors, including logistical challenges and deeply rooted beliefs.

The Challenges on the Ground: Reaching Vulnerable Populations

The outbreak in northern Mexico is particularly challenging. Beyond the sheer scale of the outbreak, resistance to vaccination within some Mennonite communities, coupled with the region’s difficult terrain, hinders effective intervention. Day laborers traveling between mountainous regions and Mennonite farms are acting as vectors, spreading the virus to previously unaffected areas. The Mexican government has extended the recommended vaccination age to 49, recognizing the need to protect a broader segment of the population, but simply expanding eligibility isn’t enough.

PAHO emphasizes the need for targeted vaccine delivery to states and coverage for seasonal workers. A support mission to Chihuahua will focus on training healthcare professionals, bolstering laboratory surveillance, and improving vaccine access – particularly ensuring doses are available on weekends to accommodate informal work schedules. Crucially, healthcare workers need to communicate the importance of vaccination in accessible language, combating the misinformation that has eroded public trust.

“Many of the outbreaks occur in communities that continue to show strong reluctance to this method of protection, on which doubts have been sown in recent years with speeches that contradict scientific evidence. Compression at this point is essential.” – Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO

Future Trends: Beyond Borders and the Rise of “Vaccine Fatigue”

The Americas’ vulnerability extends beyond internal challenges. As long as measles remains endemic in other parts of the world, the region will be susceptible to imported cases. This highlights the interconnectedness of global health security and the need for coordinated international efforts. However, a more insidious trend is emerging: “vaccine fatigue.” After the intense focus on COVID-19 vaccines, public attention and resources may be diverted from routine immunizations, creating a dangerous blind spot.

Did you know? Immunization against measles has prevented an estimated 60 million deaths globally between 2000 and 2023, with 6 million of those deaths averted in the Americas.

The Role of Digital Health and Targeted Communication

Combating vaccine hesitancy requires a multifaceted approach, and digital health tools can play a crucial role. Targeted social media campaigns, utilizing data analytics to identify and address specific concerns within communities, can be more effective than broad-stroke messaging. Telehealth platforms can also expand access to vaccination information and counseling, particularly in remote areas. However, these tools must be deployed responsibly, ensuring accuracy and avoiding the spread of misinformation. See our guide on Effective Public Health Communication Strategies for more details.

The Potential for Personalized Vaccination Schedules

Looking further ahead, advancements in immunology may lead to personalized vaccination schedules, tailored to individual immune responses and risk factors. This could optimize vaccine efficacy and reduce the need for booster shots, potentially alleviating “vaccine fatigue.” However, the development and implementation of such personalized approaches will require significant investment in research and infrastructure.

FAQ: Addressing Common Concerns About Measles and Vaccination

What are the symptoms of measles?

Measles symptoms typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A characteristic rash develops a few days later, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.

Is the measles vaccine safe?

Yes, the measles vaccine is extremely safe and effective. Serious side effects are rare. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.

What should I do if I suspect I or my child has measles?

Contact your healthcare provider immediately. Measles is highly contagious, and early diagnosis and isolation are crucial to prevent further spread.

Can adults get measles?

Yes, adults who were not vaccinated as children or who have never had measles are susceptible to infection.

The resurgence of measles in the Americas is a wake-up call. Reclaiming measles-free status will require a sustained commitment to vaccination, a proactive approach to addressing vaccine hesitancy, and a recognition that public health is a shared responsibility. The future of disease prevention hinges on our ability to learn from this setback and build a more resilient and equitable healthcare system. What steps do you think are most critical to restoring confidence in vaccines and protecting our communities?



Learn more about the factors driving vaccine hesitancy and how to address them.

For comprehensive information on measles, visit the World Health Organization’s measles fact sheet.


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Health

WHO Reaccredits Spain’s Measles & Rubella Lab Expertise

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

The Future of Measles and Rubella Control: Beyond Reaccreditation

A startling statistic: despite highly effective vaccines being available, measles cases surged globally by 300% in the first three months of 2019 alone, according to the WHO. This resurgence, coupled with the recent reaccreditation of the National Center of Microbiology (CNM) in Spain as a World Health Organization (WHO) National Reference Laboratory for Measles and Rubella, isn’t just a win for Spanish public health – it’s a critical signal about the evolving challenges and future directions in infectious disease control. The CNM’s role is more vital than ever, and understanding the implications of this reaccreditation reveals a landscape demanding proactive surveillance, innovative diagnostics, and a renewed commitment to global vaccination efforts.

The CNM’s Role in a Changing Landscape

The CNM, belonging to the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII), serves as a cornerstone of the Global Network of Measles and Rubella Laboratories. This network is the WHO’s frontline defense against these preventable diseases. Reaccreditation signifies the CNM consistently meets rigorous standards for accurate and reliable testing – a crucial element in tracking outbreaks, monitoring vaccine effectiveness, and guiding public health responses. But maintaining these standards isn’t simply about repeating past successes; it’s about anticipating future threats.

Measles and rubella elimination isn’t a static achievement. Factors like waning immunity, vaccine hesitancy, and increased global mobility create ongoing risks. The CNM’s continued accreditation ensures Spain remains equipped to rapidly identify and characterize circulating strains, contributing to a global understanding of viral evolution and potential vaccine escape variants.

Emerging Trends in Measles and Rubella Surveillance

Traditional surveillance methods, relying on clinical reporting, are often insufficient to capture the full picture. Several key trends are shaping the future of measles and rubella control:

Genomic Surveillance: The New Frontier

Whole-genome sequencing is rapidly becoming essential. It allows scientists to trace the origins of outbreaks, identify transmission pathways, and detect genetic changes in the viruses themselves. This information is vital for tailoring vaccination strategies and predicting the potential impact of new variants. The CNM’s role in genomic surveillance will likely expand, requiring investment in advanced sequencing technologies and bioinformatics expertise.

Did you know? Genomic surveillance can pinpoint whether a measles outbreak is linked to imported cases or sustained local transmission, informing targeted interventions.

Digital Epidemiology and Real-Time Data

Leveraging digital data sources – social media, internet search trends, and electronic health records – offers the potential for earlier outbreak detection. “Digital epidemiology” can provide real-time insights into disease activity, complementing traditional surveillance systems. However, ethical considerations and data privacy concerns must be carefully addressed.

The Rise of Wastewater Surveillance

Monitoring viral RNA in wastewater is emerging as a powerful tool for tracking infectious disease prevalence within communities. This non-invasive method can provide early warnings of outbreaks, even before clinical cases are reported. While still in its early stages, wastewater surveillance holds significant promise for proactive disease management.

Implications for Public Health and Vaccination Strategies

The CNM’s reaccreditation, viewed through the lens of these emerging trends, highlights several critical implications:

Firstly, a sustained investment in laboratory capacity is paramount. This includes not only maintaining accreditation standards but also expanding capabilities in genomic sequencing, bioinformatics, and advanced diagnostic techniques.

Secondly, strengthening international collaboration is crucial. The Global Network of Measles and Rubella Laboratories must function as a cohesive unit, sharing data, expertise, and resources to effectively respond to global outbreaks.

Expert Insight: “The future of measles and rubella control hinges on our ability to move beyond reactive responses and embrace proactive, data-driven strategies. The CNM’s role as a WHO reference laboratory is central to this effort.” – Dr. Elena Garcia, Infectious Disease Specialist.

Thirdly, addressing vaccine hesitancy remains a major challenge. Combating misinformation, building trust in vaccines, and ensuring equitable access to immunization are essential for achieving and maintaining elimination goals.

Actionable Insights for a Proactive Approach

What can be done to strengthen measles and rubella control efforts? Here are a few key takeaways:

Invest in Genomic Surveillance: Prioritize funding for whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics infrastructure to track viral evolution and inform vaccination strategies.
Embrace Digital Epidemiology: Explore the potential of digital data sources for early outbreak detection, while addressing ethical and privacy concerns.
Strengthen Vaccination Programs: Focus on achieving and maintaining high vaccination coverage rates, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and ensuring equitable access to immunization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a WHO National Reference Laboratory?

A WHO National Reference Laboratory is a laboratory designated by a member state and accredited by the WHO to perform specific diagnostic tests and provide reference materials for a particular disease. They play a crucial role in global disease surveillance and control.

Why is genomic surveillance important for measles and rubella?

Genomic surveillance allows scientists to track the evolution of the viruses, identify transmission pathways, and detect potential vaccine escape variants, informing targeted vaccination strategies.

How can individuals contribute to measles and rubella elimination?

The most important contribution is to ensure you and your family are fully vaccinated against measles and rubella. Additionally, sharing accurate information about vaccines and combating misinformation can help build trust and promote vaccination.

What is the role of wastewater surveillance in infectious disease control?

Wastewater surveillance involves monitoring viral RNA in wastewater to track the prevalence of infectious diseases within communities, providing early warnings of outbreaks even before clinical cases are reported.

The CNM’s reaccreditation is a testament to Spain’s commitment to public health. However, it’s also a call to action. The future of measles and rubella control demands a proactive, data-driven approach, leveraging emerging technologies and strengthening global collaboration. What are your predictions for the future of infectious disease surveillance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!



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Health

Measles: Surprising Facts & Risks You Need to Know

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

The Resurgence of Measles: Why a Highly Contagious Past is Becoming a Worrying Future

One person with measles can infect up to 18 others – that’s three times more contagious than even the most virulent strains of COVID-19. This startling statistic underscores a growing public health concern: measles is back, and it’s spreading. After being declared eliminated in Mexico in 1995, the virus is now causing outbreaks, raising questions about vaccination rates, global travel, and the impact of misinformation. But this isn’t just a historical repeat; the context has changed, and the potential consequences are significant.

A Highly Contagious Threat: Understanding the Mechanics of Spread

Measles’ remarkable contagiousness stems from its airborne nature. The virus can remain suspended in the air for up to two hours after an infected person speaks or coughs, making transmission incredibly easy, even with diligent hygiene practices. This is why health officials are emphasizing the importance of ventilation and sanitization, echoing strategies used during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, unlike COVID-19, measles has a longer incubation period – 14 days – and individuals are contagious before they even exhibit symptoms, specifically four days before and four days after the characteristic rash appears. This pre-symptomatic spread makes containment particularly challenging.

Recognizing the Symptoms and Seeking Immediate Care

Early detection is crucial. The initial symptoms of measles are deceptively simple: fever and a rash. The rash typically begins on the head and neck, then spreads down the trunk and extremities. These aren’t flat, indistinct marks; they’re small, raised spots that can be felt when touched. If you suspect measles, Salud Jalisco recommends seeking immediate medical attention, isolating yourself from others, and keeping children home from school. Delay can significantly increase the risk of transmission.

Mexico’s Current Outbreak: A Growing Concern

As of October 24th, Mexico has recorded 5,053 confirmed cases of measles, with an additional 11,522 suspected cases and, tragically, 23 deaths. While these numbers are far below the 68,782 cases seen during the 1990 epidemic (which had a rate of 82.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants), the current rate of 3.76 cases per 100,000 is a clear indication that the outbreak is gaining momentum. Certain regions are particularly vulnerable. Chihuahua currently has the highest incidence rate, with 111 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Sonora, Michoacán, Guerrero, Durango, and Jalisco.

“The re-emergence of measles is a stark reminder that vaccine-preventable diseases remain a threat, especially when vaccination coverage declines. Importation of cases from other countries, combined with pockets of unvaccinated individuals, creates the perfect conditions for outbreaks.” – Carlos Alonso Reynoso, Epidemiologist (as reported by Informador.mx)

The Role of Vaccine Hesitancy and Misinformation

The primary driver behind this resurgence isn’t a change in the virus itself, but a change in our collective immunity. Measles had been eliminated in Mexico thanks to successful vaccination programs. However, declining vaccination rates, fueled by misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, have left a significant portion of the population susceptible. The “infodemic” – the rapid spread of false or misleading information online – has played a significant role in eroding public trust in vaccines. Addressing this requires a multi-pronged approach, including robust public health campaigns, proactive debunking of myths, and building trust with communities.

Key Takeaway: Declining vaccination rates, driven by misinformation, are the primary cause of the measles resurgence. Rebuilding public trust in vaccines is paramount.

Future Scenarios: What’s Next for Measles?

The current outbreak is likely just the beginning. Without a significant increase in vaccination coverage, we can expect to see more widespread outbreaks in the coming months and years. Here are a few potential scenarios:

  • Continued Spread: If vaccination rates remain stagnant, measles could become endemic again in Mexico, leading to recurring outbreaks and a sustained burden on the healthcare system.
  • Geographic Expansion: The outbreak could spread to other regions of Mexico and even to neighboring countries, particularly those with low vaccination rates.
  • Severe Complications: Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. These complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), and even death.

However, there’s still time to change course. A concerted effort to increase vaccination coverage, coupled with effective public health messaging, can prevent a full-blown epidemic. This requires collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, and community leaders.

The Impact of Global Travel

Increased international travel also plays a role. Measles continues to circulate in many parts of the world, and travelers can unknowingly bring the virus back to Mexico. This highlights the importance of ensuring that travelers are vaccinated before embarking on international trips. The CDC provides detailed guidance on measles and travel.

Proactive Steps You Can Take

Pro Tip: Check your vaccination records and ensure you and your family are up-to-date on the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. If you’re unsure, consult your healthcare provider.

Beyond vaccination, practicing good hygiene – frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes – can help reduce the spread of the virus. Staying informed about the outbreak and following the guidance of public health officials is also crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the measles vaccine safe?

A: Yes, the MMR vaccine is highly safe and effective. It has been used for decades and has a well-established safety record. Serious side effects are rare.

Q: Can I get measles even if I’ve been vaccinated?

A: While the vaccine is highly effective, it’s not 100% foolproof. However, vaccinated individuals who do contract measles typically experience milder symptoms.

Q: What should I do if I think I have measles?

A: Contact your healthcare provider immediately. It’s important to isolate yourself from others to prevent further spread.

Q: Where can I find more information about measles?

A: The World Health Organization (WHO Measles Fact Sheet) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are excellent resources.

The return of measles is a wake-up call. It’s a reminder that infectious diseases don’t respect borders and that protecting public health requires a collective effort. By prioritizing vaccination, combating misinformation, and staying vigilant, we can prevent a resurgence of this highly contagious and potentially dangerous disease. What steps will you take to protect yourself and your community?


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