The Maldives has successfully met the criteria to be declared as a leprosy-free country.
Ministry of Health announced the completion of the necessary internal and external verification processes, fulfilling the requirements to declare the Maldives a leprosy-free country. Many of the goals outlined in the Framework for Zero Leprosy in the Maldives, developed with the assistance of the World Health Organisation (WHO), have been accomplished by the Maldives. The ministry held discussions with a WHO expert team, sharing progress reports, verification findings, and achievements related to the country's zero leprosy framework. The expert team also provided guidance on future steps and tasks.
The health ministry also confirmed that 178 islands were deemed eligible for the leprosy-free status, following both internal and external verification processes. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) played a crucial role in conducting leprosy detection and screening programmes among the public to identify disease-free islands. In addition, a team of international experts carried out internal and external verification assessments, including training health workers to adopt a new approach toward leprosy treatment and attitudes.
The government launched the Zero Leprosy programme in 2019, with the aim of eliminating the disease by 2030. However, the programme was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. HPA stated that upon completion of the project, the Maldives may officially become the first country in the world to eliminate leprosy.
Leprosy is a contagious disease that affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract, and eyes. The disease can be effectively treated with multi-drug therapy if diagnosed early. The disease can also occur at any age, from early childhood to old age.
The introduction of leprosy treatment in 1982 led to a significant reduction in reported cases. By 1997, leprosy was officially declared no longer a public health threat in the Maldives.