Regional leaders are being called upon to enhance their efforts in combating the threat of HIV/AIDS across the Caribbean, particularly in preventing mother-to-child transmission.
Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, emphasized this call to action during a recent certification ceremony organized by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and supported by UNICEF and UNAIDS.
Celebrating EMTCT success
The event, held at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston on May 7, marked the official recognition of Jamaica, Belize, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines for their successful elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis (EMTCT), as certified by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Dr. Tufton highlighted that Jamaica and other nations achieving this milestone are ready to collaborate with bilateral partners to offer support.
Promoting unity for universal access
Dr. Tufton emphasized the importance of elevating the health status of vulnerable populations to enhance overall regional well-being.
He advocated for unity to achieve universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care.
He noted that more work is needed to stem the spread of infections across the Caribbean, adding that “greater unity must be fostered for the region to forge ahead towards achieving universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care.”
Belizean health minister’s perspective
Echoing Dr. Tufton’s sentiments, Belize’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Kevin Bernard, reinforced the fundamental right of all children to access quality healthcare.
He emphasized the importance of the certification achievement while acknowledging that the journey does not end here.
Bernard highlighted the need to continue striving for healthcare excellence to ensure high-quality health services for all, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Continuing the fight against HIV
Christine Stegling, Deputy Executive Director for Policy, Advocacy, and Knowledge at UNAIDS, underlined the need for ongoing vigilance.
With over 100,000 people living with HIV in the Caribbean and not receiving treatment, improving access to antiretroviral therapy remains crucial.
She emphasized the importance of preventative measures, noting that discriminatory laws and gender inequality undermine health efforts.
Collaborative road ahead
The collective achievements in eliminating mother-to-child transmission across Jamaica, Belize, and St. Vincent, and the Grenadines underscore the power of partnerships in healthcare.
Regional leaders are now urged to build on this momentum, working towards universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care. Collaboration and unity remain key in ensuring every child in the Caribbean has a healthier start in life.
