AMMAN, Jordan (ChatnewsTV) — The World Health Organization (WHO) announced Thursday that Jordan has become the first country in the world to be officially verified as having eliminated leprosy, marking a major milestone in global public health efforts. The achievement underscores the success of Jordan’s long-standing public health initiatives aimed at eradicating the ancient disease.
“WHO congratulates Jordan on this impressive milestone,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Leprosy has afflicted humanity for millennia, but country by country, we are stopping transmission and freeing individuals, families, and communities from its suffering and stigma.”
Jordan has not reported any autochthonous cases of leprosy in over two decades. The WHO’s verification followed an independent assessment, which found that Jordan’s strong political commitment and effective public health strategies had successfully eliminated the disease within its borders.
“This is a historic milestone in public health and a huge success for global efforts to eliminate leprosy,” said Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia and head of WHO’s Global Leprosy Programme. “The fight against leprosy is more than just about the disease. It’s also a fight against stigma and the socio-economic harm caused by this affliction. Jordan’s achievement is truly inspiring.”
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious condition that can cause severe damage to the skin, nerves, and eyes if left untreated. While the disease remains present in over 120 countries, Jordan’s success demonstrates the possibility of eliminating leprosy through sustained public health efforts, early detection, and treatment.
Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, praised Jordan’s role in setting a precedent for other nations. “Jordan’s elimination of leprosy is an achievement that will transform the discourse around this age-old, stigmatizing disease,” said Dr. Balkhy. “As the first country to achieve this target globally, Jordan stands as an inspiration, encouraging other nations to strengthen their efforts.”
Despite its success, Jordan’s Ministry of Health, in coordination with the WHO, has stressed the importance of maintaining robust surveillance systems to manage any future cases, including those brought in from abroad.
“Jordan’s journey highlights the power of sustained efforts in public health,” said Dr. Jamela Al-Raiby, WHO Representative to Jordan. “This success was made possible by the leadership of the Ministry of Health, collaboration with WHO, and technical support at all levels. We are committed to ensuring the sustainability of this achievement.”
Leprosy continues to affect over 200,000 people globally each year, particularly in developing nations. Jordan’s elimination of the disease demonstrates the potential for other countries to follow suit through strong political commitment and international collaboration.
