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

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.