Health
Leprosy elimination recognized in Chile by WHO
Chile has been verified by the World Health Organization as having eliminated leprosy as a public health problem, marking a milestone in disease control.
On 4 March 2026, the World Health Organization officially recognized Chile as the first country in the Americas verified for the elimination of leprosy as a public health problem. The declaration came after Chile met sustained national targets for leprosy case reduction, early detection, and integrated care. Health authorities and WHO emphasized the importance of continued surveillance, access to treatment, and community awareness to prevent resurgence. The milestone reflects decades of coordinated public health efforts, including improved diagnostics, training for frontline health workers, and strengthened primary care networks. Chile’s success is expected to inspire neighboring countries pursuing similar elimination goals.
- Status
- active
- Location
- Santiago, Chile
- Date added
- 2026-03-26 08:49 UTC
- Last updated
- 2026-03-26 08:49 UTC
- Source
- World Health Organization
- Connected threats
- Not provided