Towards Zero Leprosy

Leprosy, one of the oldest infections known to mankind, is the leading cause of permanent disability among the communicable diseases. Despite gradual overall decline in the leprosy burden, the proportion of new cases and those with grade 2 disability in many countries remain relatively high indicating late case detection and ongoing transmission. WHO, in its current global leprosy strategy (2021-2030) resets the target for leprosy elimination, defined as no new autochthonous cases as a result of interruption of transmission. This presentation explores the strategies and challenges in achieving the long-term vision of Towards Zero Leprosy.