Health
CHILE has reached a major public health milestone, becoming the first country in the Americas, and only the second in the world to officially eliminate leprosy, according to the World Health Organization, WHO and the Pan American Health Organization, PAHO.
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, dates back to the late 19th century in Chile, particularly on Rapa Nui. While the disease appeared occasionally on the mainland, it was largely contained through isolation and treatment efforts. The last locally transmitted case was recorded in 1993, and for over 30 years now, Chile has not seen any new infections originating within its borders.
Despite this long absence, Chile did not become complacent. The disease remained on the country’s public health radar, with strict monitoring systems, mandatory reporting, and continued readiness among healthcare professionals.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the achievement as a powerful example of what sustained effort and collaboration can accomplish. He noted that Chile’s success shows that even long-standing diseases can be eliminated with strong leadership, early detection, and access to quality healthcare.
PAHO Director, Jarbas Barbosa also praised the country, emphasizing that this milestone proves elimination is possible, especially when health systems are strong and inclusive. He added that tackling diseases like leprosy also helps break the link between illness and poverty.
Chile’s Minister of Health, Ximena Aguilera, called the recognition a proud moment for the country. She highlighted decades of consistent work from prevention and early diagnosis to treatment and long-term care as key to this success. She also stressed the importance of continuing surveillance and ensuring that patients are treated with dignity, free from stigma.
Between 2012 and 2023, Chile reported just 47 cases of leprosy, all of which were imported rather than locally transmitted. The country’s healthcare system is designed to catch such cases early. Patients are first seen at primary healthcare centers and then referred to specialists for diagnosis and treatment. Care goes beyond medication, including rehabilitation and support services to help patients fully recover and reintegrate into society.
Chile’s achievement is also a win for the wider region. It sets a strong example for other countries in the Americas, showing that with the right policies, collaboration, and long-term planning, elimination is within reach.
A key part of this success has been consistent access to treatment. Since 1995, WHO and PAHO have ensured a steady supply of multidrug therapy (MDT), provided free of charge with support from partners like the The Nippon Foundation and Novartis. This has been crucial in curing patients, preventing disability, and stopping transmission.
Chile’s broader legal and social systems have also played a role. Laws guaranteeing equal access to healthcare and protecting against discrimination have ensured that everyone including migrants and vulnerable groups can receive treatment without fear of stigma.
Even with this milestone, the work isn’t over. Health authorities are expected to maintain strong surveillance, continue reporting to WHO, and ensure that healthcare workers remain trained to detect and manage any future cases. The goal is not just to eliminate the disease, but to stay prepared so it does not return.
Chile’s journey shows that eliminating a disease isn’t just about reaching zero cases, it’s about building a health system strong enough to keep it that way.
A.I
April 14, 2026
Tags: eliminate leprosy Jarbas Barbosa PAHO. Pan American Health Organization Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus