Global guidance on criteria and processes for validation: Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and Syphilis (2nd Edition); 2017

This second edition of the EMTCT global validation guidance document provides standardized processes and consensus-developed criteria to validate EMTCT of HIV and syphilis, and to recognize high-HIV burden countries that have made significant progress on the path to elimination. The guidance places strong emphasis on country-led accountability, rigorous analysis, intensive programme assessment and multilevel collaboration, including the involvement of communities of women living with HIV. It provides guidance to evaluate the country’s EMTCT programme, the quality and accuracy of its laboratory and data collection mechanisms, as well as its efforts to uphold human rights and equality of women living with HIV, and their involvement in decision-making processes. We are convinced that setting the bar high will result in the best results for all, and in particular, for women and children at risk for HIV and syphilis. WHO is pleased with the initial progress of this elimination initiative, and