Chile has become the first country in the Americas to eliminate leprosy as a public health problem. The achievement has been officially verified by the World Health Organization (WHO) after more than 30 years without locally transmitted cases.
According to health officials, the last locally acquired case of leprosy in Chile was recorded in 1993. Since then, the country has maintained strict disease monitoring and reporting systems to ensure that no new local transmission occurs.
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a long-term infectious illness caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. It mainly affects the skin, nerves, eyes and respiratory tract. If left untreated, it can cause permanent nerve damage, disabilities and social stigma. However, the disease is completely curable with multidrug therapy, a treatment that combines antibiotics.
WHO and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) carried out a detailed review before granting verification. Experts examined Chile’s health data, surveillance systems and long-term response plans. Officials confirmed that Chile can quickly detect and treat any imported case, preventing the disease from spreading again.
Chile is now the second country in the world to receive this verification, after Jordan achieved the same status in 2024.
Health experts say Chile’s success shows that strong political commitment, early diagnosis and free access to treatment are key to eliminating neglected diseases. Even after cases became rare, Chile kept leprosy as a notifiable disease, meaning doctors had to report any suspected case.
Globally, leprosy still exists. WHO reported over 170,000 new cases worldwide in 2024, mainly in parts of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Chile’s milestone sends a strong message that with steady public health efforts, even ancient diseases can be defeated.
