Chile Eliminates Leprosy, Becoming First Nation in the Americas to Achieve This Milestone

Santiago, Chile – March 4, 2026 – In a landmark achievement for public health, Chile has been officially verified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as having eliminated leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease. This makes Chile the first country in the Americas, and the second globally after Jordan , to achieve this significant milestone.

A History of Leprosy in Chile

Leprosy was historically recorded in Chile at the complete of the 19th century, primarily on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Whereas limited on the mainland, sporadic introductions were contained through isolation and treatment measures on the island, with the last secondary cases managed by the late 1990s.

Sustained Elimination Efforts

Since 1993, Chile has not reported any locally acquired cases of leprosy. However, the disease remained a notifiable condition, continuously monitored through mandatory reporting, integrated surveillance, and ongoing clinical readiness across the health system. Between 2012 and 2023, the country reported 47 cases nationwide, all imported.

WHO and PAHO Commend Chile’s Success

“This landmark public health achievement is a powerful testament to what leadership, science, and solidarity can accomplish,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Chile’s 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.”

Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, added that Chile’s achievement demonstrates that eliminating leprosy is achievable through strong systems for detection, response, and comprehensive care, particularly for those living with chronic disabilities.

Key Elements of Chile’s Success

• Robust Surveillance: Continuous monitoring and reporting of leprosy cases.
• Early Detection: Primary care centers serve as the initial point of contact for suspected cases, with timely referrals to specialized dermatology services.
• Effective Treatment: Access to multidrug therapy (MDT), provided free of charge by PAHO since 1995.
• Holistic Care: Comprehensive care including physiotherapy and rehabilitation services.
• Training: Ongoing training for clinicians aligned with WHO’s Towards zero leprosy strategy.
• Equitable Access: A mixed public–private health system with strong regulatory oversight ensures access for all, including migrants and vulnerable populations.

Looking Ahead

Chile’s success serves as an inspiring example for other nations in the Americas and globally. The WHO and PAHO encourage Chile to continue reporting, maintain sensitive surveillance, and retain clinical expertise to address any future cases. This achievement underscores the importance of sustained public health efforts, political commitment, and cross-sector collaboration in eliminating neglected tropical diseases.

Chile joins Jordan and 60 other countries worldwide in achieving leprosy elimination.