Chile received official verification from the World Health Organization for the elimination of leprosy disease. Consequently the country became the first in the Americas and the second globally after Jordan to reach this public health milestone.
World Health Organization Verifies Chile Success
The World Health Organization verified Chile elimination of leprosy on March 4 2026. Moreover the Pan American Health Organization joined the announcement during a ceremony in Santiago.
Furthermore an independent expert panel reviewed Chile data in 2025. Subsequently the panel confirmed the absence of local transmission and the strength of ongoing surveillance systems.
The Chile Minister of Health Celebrates Milestone
Ximena Aguilera the Chile Minister of Health addressed the ceremony. “This is very good news and a source of great pride for our country” she said. “Chile has received verification of the elimination of leprosy disease becoming the first country in the Americas and the second globally to achieve this recognition.”
In addition Ximena Aguilera noted “This milestone reflects decades of sustained public health efforts including prevention strategies early diagnosis effective treatment continuous follow up and the commitment of health teams across the country.”
WHO Director General Praises Achievement
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus the WHO Director General commended the success. “This landmark public health achievement is a powerful testament to what leadership science and solidarity can accomplish” he said. “Chile elimination of leprosy sends a clear message to the world with sustained commitment inclusive health services integrated public health strategies early detection and universal access to care we can consign ancient diseases to history.”
PAHO Director Highlights Regional Impact
Jarbas Barbosa the PAHO Director stressed the broader significance. “Chile achievement demonstrates that eliminating leprosy is achievable and requires building strong systems that can detect respond to and provide comprehensive care for people affected by the disease including those living with chronic disabilities” he stated. “Being the first country in the Americas to be confirmed as eliminating leprosy sends a powerful message to the Region.”
Chile Records No Local Cases Since 1993
Chile detected its last locally acquired leprosy case in 1993. As a result the nation reported zero indigenous cases for more than 30 years.
Meanwhile authorities documented 47 cases between 2012 and 2023. However all those infections came from outside the country. Chile kept leprosy as a notifiable condition. Therefore officials enforced mandatory reporting and integrated surveillance across the health system.
Subsequently the Pan American Health Organization supplied free multidrug therapy since 1995. Consequently this support cured patients prevented disabilities and interrupted transmission.
