During the 2024–2025 biennium, the Turks and Caicos Islands submitted its report to the Regional Validation Committee for validation of the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, marking an important milestone in the country’s path toward elimination of communicable diseases.  

PAHO provided sustained technical cooperation to support data collection and analysis to demonstrate the achievement of the EMTCT targets; develop information, education, and communication materials for pregnant women; and provide training for more than 100 health care providers on the clinical management of hepatitis B. In addition, the Organization supported the ongoing strengthening of surveillance for EMTCT Plus within maternal and child health by donating desktop computers for use in the primary care clinics, thereby ensuring the availability of real-time data and strengthening effective monitoring and tracking of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B cases among pregnant women and exposed infants.  

PAHO organized, spearheaded, and financially supported the regional validation team that conducted the assessment. Based on the information submitted, the territory is also being considered for the path toward EMTCT of hepatitis B. The report was reviewed and the mission completed in 2025.  

Photo caption: Visit to Princess Margaret Hospital in The Bahamas

Credit: PAHO