Leprosy Continues to Affect Some Communities in Haiti

Despite being widely perceived as a disease of the past, leprosy remains a persistent health concern in several Haitian communities. In March 2026, health authorities confirmed multiple cases in the Artibonite and Southeast departments following alerts from local communities, which prompted investigations.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is collaborating with Haiti's Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP) to bolster the national response. This support encompasses epidemiological surveillance, patient management, technical assistance, and strengthening community involvement. In the Artibonite region, a historical hotspot for the disease in Haiti, community members and social media videos led to investigations confirming cases in Saint-Marc and Gonaïves. Similarly, two cases were identified in the commune of Marigot in the Southeast department after alerts from community and religious leaders.

These detections underscore the silent transmission of leprosy, particularly in areas where access to specialized healthcare is restricted. Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that can lead to permanent disabilities if not diagnosed and treated early. Fortunately, it is curable with WHO-recommended multidrug therapy, which is provided free of charge.

Dr. Cheick Bady Diallo, CDE Advisor at the PAHO/WHO Haiti Office, noted the significance of these findings. "The identification of advanced forms of the disease, including in an adolescent, reminds us that leprosy is still circulating silently in some communities. Each detected case is an opportunity to break the chain of transmission and protect the most vulnerable," he stated. PAHO/WHO has supplied medications for treating leprosy in both adults and children, aiding in the management of identified cases and preparation for potential new detections through active case-finding efforts.

The recent experiences in Haiti also highlight the vital role of communities in early case detection. Community health workers, local organizations, religious leaders, and grassroots actors are instrumental in identifying individuals with symptoms, encouraging them to seek care, and helping to reduce the stigma associated with the disease.

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The identification of advanced forms of the disease, including in an adolescent, reminds us that leprosy is still circulating silently in some communities. Each detected case is an opportunity to break the chain of transmission and protect the most vulnerable.