The Regional Initiative for the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and Congenital Syphilis in Latin America and the Caribbean, also known as the "Elimination Initiative", is a multi-agency effort to integrate the services of prevention and diagnosis of HIV and syphilis within the framework of primary care services, prenatal, sexual, reproductive and family health. Typically, prevention of the mother-to-child transmission of HIV and congenital syphilis has been addressed separately. The initiative was launched in 2009 by UNICEF, PAHO, the Latin American Center for Perinatology (CLAP) and partner organizations in Latin America and the Caribbean and intends to eliminate the mother-to-child transmission of HIV and of congenital syphilis in the region by 2015.

Objectives

The main objective of this initiative is to eliminate congenital syphilis and mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Latin America and the Caribbean by 2015. Strategies and action plans related to the initiatives will be implemented in the Region beginning 2009 until 2015. To achieve their main goal, the initiative proposes an integrated approach to prevention; improve the prenatal coverage, diagnosis and early treatment of pregnant women in the region. It also recognizes the need to reinforce the integration of primary health care systems and improve information systems. Specific targets set for 2015 are as follows:

History