A Global Milestone: This Country Is the First to Eliminate Leprosy Disease

Jordan has officially become the first country in the world to receive the World Health Organization’s verification for eliminating Leprosy.

“Jordan’s journey highlights the power of sustained efforts in public health and the potential of global collaboration to overcome even the most challenging public health issues,” says WHO representative Dr. Jamela Al-Raiby.

As a testament to the country’s effective public health strategies, Jordan has not seen any autochthonous cases of Leprosy in over two decades. Leprosy itself can present severe health complications, not to mention the age-old stigmas surrounding the disease. In its elimination of Leprosy – reviewed by an independent team of researchers – Jordan sets a worldwide precedent that comes only after decades of commitment, dedication, and collaboration. “As the first country to achieve this target globally, Jordan stands as an inspiration to other countries,” adds WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy. Though Leprosy is now considered eradicated within the country, vigilance remains vital for potential future cases of foreign-borne diseases.