Caribbean health workers unite to accelerate leprosy elimination efforts

November 2025 - In Guyana, where fewer than 30 new leprosy cases are reported each year, consistent surveillance is telling a hopeful story: Even with low numbers of reported cases, , sustained efforts remain essential.

Guyana has shifted away from the days when people affected by leprosy were isolated in leprosariums and is committed to early detection, surveillance, community outreach and actions that reduce disability and stigma. The detection of cases in pediatric populations indicates that transmission still occurs, and the identification of cases with disability highlights the need to continue strengthening case detection efforts.

To stay ahead, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is supporting Member States in the Caribbean to strengthen their leprosy programs: early case detection, contact tracing, and the effort to reduce stigma.