Jordan Becomes First Country to Eliminate Leprosy, Says WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) has congratulated Jordan for becoming the first country in the world to officially eliminate leprosy. This achievement marks a significant milestone in global public health efforts.
WHO’s Praise for Jordan
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated, “WHO congratulates Jordan on this impressive milestone. 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.”
Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, also praised Jordan, saying, “Jordan’s elimination of this age-old disease is a historic milestone in public health and a huge success for efforts to eliminate leprosy globally.”
Jordan’s Commitment and Success
Jordan has not reported any local cases of leprosy for over two decades, demonstrating its strong political commitment and effective public health strategies. An independent team commissioned by WHO verified the elimination of leprosy in Jordan after an extensive review.
WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Hanan Balkhy, added, “Jordan’s elimination of leprosy is an achievement that will transform the discourse around this age-old, stigmatizing disease.”
Future Vigilance
Despite this success, WHO and Jordan’s Ministry of Health stress the importance of maintaining robust surveillance systems to detect and manage future potential cases, including foreign-borne cases, without discrimination.
WHO Representative to Jordan, Jamela Al-Raiby, emphasized, “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.”
About Leprosy
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract, and eyes. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent disability. Leprosy is still present in more than 120 countries, with over 200,000 new cases reported each year.
Doubts Revealed
Jordan -: Jordan is a country in the Middle East, located to the northwest of India. It is known for its ancient monuments, nature reserves, and seaside resorts.
Leprosy -: Leprosy is a disease that affects the skin, nerves, and other parts of the body. It can cause sores and nerve damage if not treated.
WHO -: WHO stands for the World Health Organization. It is a part of the United Nations that works to improve health all around the world.
Director-General -: The Director-General is the head of the World Health Organization. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is the current Director-General.
Public health strategies -: Public health strategies are plans and actions taken by a country to keep its people healthy. This can include vaccinations, health education, and disease prevention programs.
Global public health -: Global public health refers to health issues that affect people all over the world. It involves efforts to prevent and control diseases and improve health for everyone.
