Work

Testing and Vaccination to Ensure the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B: Proceedings from UNICEF, WHO and ESCMID Subregional Workshop in Kyrgyzstan

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background The Eastern Europe and Central Asia countries face multiple and diverse challenges in the fight against HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis vertical transmission. In addition accurate data collection and reporting on vertical transmission prevention outcomes are inconsistent across some countries, making it difficult to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The two-day subregional workshop in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan March 2026 brought together international experts and national implementers from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Moldova to align on integrated screening, the continuum of care, and prevention to eliminate vertical transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. Expert sessions showcased recent evidence and policies, as well as service delivery innovations such as opt-out testing in emergency departments, vaccination during pregnancy and long-acting prevention modalities. Participants engaged actively through plenaries and three working groups that co-created actionable recommendations in screening, care, and prevention. Based on group discussions, some key recommendations to ensure triple elimination were developed for the Kyrgyzstan Ministry of Health's consideration.

Source: Przeglad Epidemiologiczny

DOI: 10.32394/pe/242039

Authors: Fakhriddin Nizamov, Olivier Epaulard, Marta Boffito, Justyna Dominika Kowalska

Institutions: United Nations Children's Fund, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Imperial College London, Medical University of Warsaw

Language: English

Topic: HIV/AIDS Research and Interventions

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Partnerships for the goals

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: UNICEF, European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases