WHO Verifies Chile as First Country in the Americas to Eliminate Leprosy | 11 Mar 2026

Why in News? 

In a historic public health achievement, Chile has officially become the first country in the Americas to be verified by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the elimination of leprosy (Hansen's Disease) as a public health problem. 

Key Points: 

• WHO Verification: The announcement was made on 10th March, 2026, following a rigorous evaluation by an independent international commission. 
• Regional First: Chile is the first nation in the Region of the Americas (PAHO/WHO) to reach this milestone, setting a precedent for other nations in the Global South. 
• Definition of Elimination: Elimination is defined by the WHO as reaching a prevalence rate of less than 1 case per 10,000 inhabitants at the national level. 
• Sustained Effort: The verification follows years of robust surveillance, early diagnosis, and free multi-drug therapy (MDT) provided through Chile's public health system. 
• Global Leprosy Strategy (2021–2030): Aims for "Towards Zero Leprosy," focusing on zero infection, zero disease, and zero stigma/discrimination. 
• Validation of Public Health Infrastructure: Chile’s success demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating leprosy services into the general primary healthcare framework. 
• Reduction of Stigma: Verification helps dismantle the ancient social stigma associated with the "Leper" label, promoting human rights.