Denmark First in EU to Eliminate Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and Syphilis

Denmark has achieved a significant public health milestone, becoming the first country in the European Union to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of both HIV and syphilis, as certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) on February 27, 2026 [1]. This achievement underscores Denmark’s commitment to ensuring that every child is born free from these infections.

Joining a Global Movement

With this certification, Denmark joins 22 other countries and territories that have been validated by the WHO for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis B virus, or are on the path to elimination [3]. These include Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Belarus, Belize, Bermuda, Brazil, Botswana, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Jamaica, Malaysia, Maldives, Montserrat, Namibia, Oman, Republic of Moldova, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sri Lanka, St. Kitts and Nevis and Thailand.

Validation Process and Key Targets

The WHO’s validation followed assessments conducted by the Regional Validation Committee in June 2025 and the Global Validation Advisory Committee in August 2025 [1]. These assessments confirmed that Denmark consistently met the required targets from 2021 to 2024, including low transmission rates and high coverage of prenatal testing and treatment for pregnant women.

According to the WHO, eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission requires testing and treating at least 95 out of every 100 pregnant women, and maintaining latest infant infections below 50 per 100,000 births year after year [1].

Commitment and System Strengths

“The elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis marks a major public health achievement for Denmark,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General [1]. “This milestone demonstrates that with strong political commitment and consistent investment in primary care and integrated maternal and child health services, countries can protect every pregnant woman and newborn from these diseases.”

Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, highlighted Denmark’s success as a testament to the strength of its maternal health system and its long-standing commitment to reaching every pregnant woman with the necessary care [1]. He emphasized the role of strong antenatal care, reliable data systems, and respect for women’s rights in achieving this outcome.

Current HIV and Syphilis Rates in Denmark

Currently, approximately 6,000 people are living with HIV in Denmark, with less than 0.1% of pregnant women affected [1]. In 2024, 626 cases of syphilis were reported, with over 500 occurring in men.

Looking Ahead: Triple Elimination

Denmark is now focusing on achieving “triple elimination” by adding hepatitis B to its success in eliminating HIV and syphilis [1]. Sophie Løhde, Minister for the Interior and Health, Denmark, expressed hope that Denmark’s experience will inspire and support other countries in their efforts to eliminate these infections.

“Being the first country in the European Union to reach this milestone is both an honour and a responsibility,” said Løhde. “We hope our experience can inspire and support other countries on their path to elimination.”