The Republic of Maldives has been felicitated by World Health Organization for its exceptional achievement in interrupting the transmission of leprosy, marking a historic milestone by achieving zero child case detection for more than five consecutive years. This remarkable accomplishment has positioned Maldives as the world's first country to officially verify the interruption of leprosy transmission. Minister of Health Honorable Ahmed Naseem was presented with a congratulatory plaque by Regional Director Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh during the ongoing Seventy-Sixth session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia.
The journey towards this momentous achievement began in 2019 when Maldives launched the 'Framework for Zero Leprosy.' This framework outlined clear milestones to reach the ambitious goal of leprosy elimination by the year 2030. The successful realization of this goal has now placed the country on the forefront of the global battle against leprosy.
A key driving force behind Maldives' success has been the unwavering commitment of its government, showcased through high political will and a deep-rooted motivation within the local communities. Additionally, the nation boasts strong healthcare systems and has exhibited minimal evidence of stigma and discrimination towards individuals affected by leprosy. These elements have been identified by an independent assessment team from WHO as pivotal factors contributing to Maldives' remarkable accomplishment.
Internal verification process was carried out in all the islands and Greater Male' Area, of which 178 islands were found to be eligible and declared by the government for achieving the Leprosy Free status. This also lead to the significant accomplishment of verifying interruption of transmission of leprosy throughout the entire country. This critical undertaking has been made possible through a close collaboration between Maldives' Ministry of Health and the WHO, solidifying the commitment of both parties to eliminating leprosy not only within the country but also throughout the South-East Asia region.
Central to the success of the Zero Leprosy program has been the training and capacity-building of healthcare professionals. WHO has played a vital role in providing crucial support in this regard. In May 2023, a 'training of trainers' program for healthcare workers was conducted in the capital, Male', and later extended to the islands. This initiative ensures the sustainability of these efforts and strengthens the foundation for continued progress.
Furthermore, WHO's collaboration with the Schieffelin Institute of Health Research and Leprosy Center (SIHRLC) included comprehensive training for laboratory technicians and physiotherapists. These measures have enhanced the diagnosis and care of leprosy patients, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the fight against this ancient disease.
Simultaneously, the Maldives initiated extensive leprosy screening and awareness campaigns on the islands. These campaigns, spearheaded by the Health Protection Agency and supported by WHO, aimed to identify new cases, facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, and ensure widespread chemoprophylaxis coverage for the population.
“The commendable feat has been made possible through robust leadership and commitment of the Government and efforts of health care workers, partners, and communities at all levels of health-care services. WHO commends continuation of surveillance and ensuring care and support for persons affected by Leprosy and encourages the country to work further towards elimination of Leprosy disease.” reads the citation conferred by Regional Director Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh.
The Republic of Maldives' journey stands as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when a nation unites to champion public health. WHO remains dedicated to maintaining a collaborative partnership with the Ministry of Health and all stakeholders. Together, the journey toward a leprosy-free Maldives is not just an elimination effort but a testament to resilience, hope, and excellence in public health that the world will long remember in the global fight against this ancient disease.