Chile Achieves Historic Milestone as First Country in the Americas to Eliminate Leprosy

The WHO officially verifies Chile as the first country in the Americas to eliminate leprosy, marking a historic milestone in the fight against ancient diseases.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 5, 2026, 8:51 AM EST

Source: PAHO/WHO

A Century-Long Journey to Eradication

Leprosy, scientifically known as Hansen’s disease, has a long history in Chile, tracing back to its introduction on Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in the late 19th century. While mainland Chile saw only sporadic cases, the disease was managed through strict isolation and treatment protocols on the island. The last secondary cases linked to Rapa Nui were managed in the late 1990s, but the true turning point occurred much earlier; Chile has not recorded an autochthonous (locally acquired) case of leprosy since 1993.

The official verification by the WHO follows a rigorous assessment conducted in 2025 by an independent expert panel. This panel reviewed over three decades of epidemiological data, surveillance mechanisms, and clinical protocols to ensure that the interruption of transmission was both genuine and sustainable. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, described the achievement as a "powerful testament" to what can be accomplished through sustained scientific and political solidarity.

Transformative Analysis of Public Health Strategy

Chile’s success provides a blueprint for eliminating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in low-incidence settings. Unlike many nations that deprioritize "rare" diseases, Chile maintained leprosy as a mandatory notifiable condition long after local transmission ceased. This "active vigilance" model ensured that the health system remained clinically ready to identify and treat imported cases—of which 47 were reported between 2012 and 2023—preventing them from seeding new local outbreaks.

By integrating leprosy surveillance into the general primary care system rather than keeping it in an isolated silo, Chile ensured that the entry point for diagnosis remained accessible to everyone, including migrant and vulnerable populations. This inclusive approach directly challenges the "vicious circle" of poverty and disease, proving that even diseases traditionally associated with extreme marginalization can be eradicated through universal health coverage and a stigma-free clinical environment.