By Ayomide Otitju
The World Health Organization (WHO) has applauded Jordan for becoming the first nation to officially eliminate leprosy, marking a significant moment in global public health efforts.
“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, freeing individuals, families, and communities from its suffering and stigma.”
Jordan has not recorded any local cases of leprosy in over 20 years, a result of its strong political commitment and effective public health strategies. This accomplishment follows a comprehensive review by a WHO-commissioned independent team, which led to the official verification of the country’s leprosy-free status.
Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia and head of the WHO Global Leprosy Programme, lauded Jordan’s achievement, calling it “a historic milestone in public health” and a major step forward in the global fight to eradicate leprosy. “The fight against leprosy is also a fight against stigma, and Jordan’s success is a beacon of hope,” she said.
WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr. Hanan Balkhy echoed this sentiment, highlighting the global significance of Jordan’s accomplishment. “Jordan’s elimination of leprosy sets a new precedent and serves as an inspiration to other nations,” Dr. Balkhy noted.
While celebrating this victory, WHO and Jordan’s Ministry of Health emphasized the need to maintain vigilant surveillance systems to detect and manage any future cases, including those imported from abroad, ensuring that the success is sustained.
Dr. Jamela Al-Raiby, WHO Representative to Jordan, praised the country’s continued collaboration with WHO, stating, “Jordan’s journey underscores the power of sustained public health efforts and international cooperation. This achievement is a testament to the country’s leadership and dedication.”
Jordan’s triumph in eliminating leprosy now stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through commitment, collaboration, and strategic planning in public health.
