WHO recognizes Barbados for eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on 30 October 2026 that Barbados had eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV as a public health problem. The recognition is based on an independent assessment of prevention, testing and treatment in the Caribbean country.

According to WHO, no new cases of HIV acquired through mother-to-child transmission were reported among children born in Barbados between 2022 and 2024. This does not mean HIV has disappeared from the country, but that a specific international elimination standard for this route of transmission has been met.

The figures show that 98% of pregnant women received antenatal care, 98% were tested for HIV, and 98% of pregnant women living with HIV received antiretroviral treatment. Testing and treatment for pregnant women are free regardless of nationality, the organization said.

Barbados joins countries and territories recognized by WHO for progress in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis or hepatitis B. Across the Americas, 15 countries and territories hold comparable recognition, according to WHO.

The organization stresses that maintaining this achievement requires continued investment, high-quality follow-up for mothers and children, and access to healthcare. Barbados's progress demonstrates the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment.

Photo: CDC / Unsplash — illustrative medical consultation, not taken in Barbados.

Source: World Health Organization, 30 October 2026.