The World Health Organization (WHO) reiterated its dedication to advancing partnerships and progress in the fight against leprosy ahead of World Leprosy Day on January 25.
In a statement, WHO emphasized that access to timely treatment is crucial for global efforts to eliminate the disease. Leprosy, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, is one of the oldest known infectious diseases, primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. Left untreated, it can lead to permanent disabilities, social stigma, and isolation. However, the disease is curable through multidrug therapy (MDT).
WHO noted that elimination efforts have already reduced the number of new cases in many regions. Of the 188 countries, areas, or territories that submitted data in 2024, 55 reported zero new cases. Nevertheless, 172,717 new cases were still reported globally that year.
The organization highlighted the critical role of partners, including pharmaceutical companies such as Novartis, in supporting leprosy elimination. Since 2000, WHO has collaborated with Novartis to provide free MDT and clofazimine to all leprosy patients worldwide. This long-standing collaboration is among the most sustained pharmaceutical donation programs in global health.
Marking 25 years of partnership, WHO and Novartis have extended their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for another five years (2026–2030). The extension ensures the continued supply of MDT and includes funding for the procurement and distribution of single-dose rifampicin for post-exposure prophylaxis.
Jeremy Farrar, WHO Assistant Director-General for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Care, praised the enduring commitment of partners like Novartis, stating that their unwavering support over the past 25 years has been instrumental in advancing global efforts against leprosy.
