The World Health Organization has recognised Barbados for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV as a public health problem, following an independent assessment of its services and outcomes.

In its 30 October announcement, WHO said no new infections resulting from mother-to-child transmission were reported among infants born in Barbados between 2022 and 2024. The agency said 98% of pregnant women received antenatal care and 98% were tested for HIV during that period; 98% of pregnant women living with HIV received antiretroviral treatment.

WHO said public clinics and hospitals provide testing and treatment free to pregnant women regardless of nationality, with early testing and follow-up for infants exposed to HIV. Testing is voluntary and confidential, it added.

The recognition refers to meeting WHO’s public-health elimination targets; maintaining that status requires continued services, surveillance and follow-up. WHO said Barbados will need sustained investment and stronger health information systems.

Source: World Health Organization, 30 October 2026 — https://www.who.int/singapore/news/detail-global/30-10-2026-barbados-eliminates-mother-to-child-transmission-of-hiv

Image: Hastings Beach, Barbados, February 2026, by BathyMetrix, Wikimedia Commons, CC0. Illustrative location photograph.