WHO’s commitment to this global effort catalysed maternal and child health services to expand their capacity to address vertical transmission of other communicable diseases, including hepatitis B virus (HBV). This culminated in the “triple elimination initiative”, which encourages countries to simultaneously commit to EMTCT of HIV, syphilis and HBV – further pushing the agenda for integrated service delivery.
Essential triple EMTCT services include:
Success in all countries depends on the combined efforts of advocates, policy-makers, health providers and community representatives. These stakeholders must help ensure that services are non-coercive and that the human rights of women, children and families affected by the 3 conditions are protected.