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Chile Eradicates Leprosy, Sets Health Milestone in Americas

3/10/2026

22 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Chile is the first country in the Americas to eliminate leprosy as a public health concern, per the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), announced March 4, 2026.
The milestone follows more than 30 years with no locally acquired cases.
PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa says the achievement shows vulnerable populations can be eradicated.

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Story summary

Chile is the first country in the Americas to eliminate leprosy as a public health concern, per the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), announced March 4, 2026.
The milestone follows more than 30 years with no locally acquired cases.
PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa says the achievement shows vulnerable populations can be eradicated.