Seychelles pioneers integrated testing to achieve triple elimination of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B |14 May 2026
The National HIV/Aids Programme of the Public Health Authority, together with the Maternal Health Programme and Abbott, will officially launch the new Determine™ Antenatal Care Panel alongside a national Training of Trainers session for midwives.
This initiative marks a major milestone in Seychelles’ commitment to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis B, positioning the country among the pioneers implementing integrated rapid maternal screening technologies.
The Determine™ Antenatal Care Panel is the first and only World Health Organisation (WHO)-prequalified rapid triple diagnostic test capable of simultaneously detecting HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis B at the point of care. Its introduction strengthens national efforts toward achieving Triple Elimination and improving maternal and child health outcomes across Seychelles.
In line with the 2025 global HIV theme, ‘Overcoming Disruption’, the initiative responds to persistent barriers affecting timely diagnosis and treatment in antenatal care services.
By introducing a ‘One-Stop Shop’ approach for maternal screening, pregnant women will now benefit from simultaneous testing for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B during a single consultation. This integrated model is expected to reduce missed opportunities for testing, improve continuity of care and accelerate access of life saving interventions.
The implementation of the Determine™ Antenatal Care Panel is expected to:
- Achieve universal screening by ensuring all pregnant women are tested at first contact with health services.
- Enable same-day diagnosis and rapid initiation of treatment or prophylaxis where required.
- Strengthen surveillance and data systems necessary for Seychelles to pursue official WHO validation for Triple Elimination of mother-to-child transmission.
To support the successful nationwide integration of the new testing algorithm, a high priority Training of Trainers (ToT) session will be conducted on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
The training will bring together midwives, laboratory technicians, and other healthcare professionals involved in antenatal care services. Participants will receive practical and technical guidance to ensure standardised, high-quality implementation across all healthcare facilities in the country.
The official launching ceremony will take place at the Savoy Seychelles Resort and Spa and will be officiated by the Minister for Health, Dr Marvin Fanny.
This landmark initiative reflects Seychelles’ continued leadership and commitment to innovation, prevention, and equitable access to maternal healthcare services.
Press release from the Ministry of Health