With robust surveillance, political commitment, and support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Chile has become the first country in the Americas to achieve leprosy elimination status.
In March 2026, Chile’s health system marked a significant milestone. While leprosy has been out of sight for decades, it has never been out of mind. The country has not reported any autochthonous cases for over 30 years. Unlike many diseases that fade from public consciousness as cases decline, leprosy remained a notifiable disease in Chile. Health professionals and laboratories are legally required to report confirmed and suspected cases, ensuring the disease remains part of the institutional memory, even as most clinicians may never encounter a case in their careers.
Maintaining Vigilance Against Neglected Diseases
Patricia Contreras, Head of Chile’s Department of Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining awareness of neglected diseases like leprosy. “A major challenge, when you reach this level of elimination, is maintaining awareness,” she explains. “Even if we see very few cases—or none at all—we must be prepared to recognize, remember, and identify a case, and have the capacity needed to respond and provide holistic care.”
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is one of the world’s oldest neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). These are a group of preventable and treatable conditions that continue to affect millions of people, particularly those living in poverty and with limited access to health services. Globally, leprosy cases are reported in more than 120 countries, with around 200,000 new cases each year. The Americas account for approximately 13% of all reported cases worldwide.
Chile’s Strategic Approach to Elimination
The elimination of leprosy is defined as zero new autochthonous cases for at least three consecutive years after having interrupted transmission for at least five years. In Chile, every case of leprosy triggers a comprehensive response, including surveillance, investigation, treatment, and follow-up. This system is designed not for volume, but for vigilance. Between 2012 and 2023, a total of 47 cases were reported nationwide, all of them imported. Most occurred in men and were concentrated in the Metropolitan Region of Santiago.
“The elimination of leprosy is a testament to Chile’s effective public health strategies and commitment to disease surveillance and response.” – Patricia Contreras
Global Implications and Future Directions
This development follows years of sustained efforts by Chilean health authorities to integrate leprosy surveillance into the broader public health framework. The country’s success offers a model for other nations striving to combat neglected tropical diseases. According to experts, the key to Chile’s success lies in its comprehensive approach, which includes education, early detection, and prompt treatment.
The move represents a significant step forward in global health, demonstrating that with the right strategies and commitment, even the most persistent diseases can be controlled. As Chile celebrates this achievement, the focus now shifts to maintaining vigilance and ensuring that the health system remains prepared to handle any future cases, imported or otherwise.
Meanwhile, international health organizations continue to emphasize the importance of addressing NTDs globally. The lessons learned from Chile’s experience could provide valuable insights for other countries in the region and beyond, as they work towards similar goals.
In conclusion, Chile’s path to eliminating leprosy underscores the importance of sustained political will, robust health systems, and international collaboration. As the world continues to battle various public health challenges, Chile’s achievement serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of what can be accomplished with determination and strategic action.
