Meeting for the development of action plans toward the interruption of transmission and elimination of leprosy in the Region of the Americas. Antigua, Guatemala, 9–11 July 2024. Meeting report

Abstract

From 9 to 11 July 2024, a meeting on leprosy elimination was held in Antigua, Guatemala, bringing together experts in leprosy management and program coordinators from 14 countries across the Americas. Organized by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) with the support of the World Health Organization, the meeting aimed to address the critical challenge of interrupting transmission and eliminating leprosy in the Region.

During the event, participants reviewed the progress made in implementing the Road Map for Neglected Tropical Diseases 2021–2030 and achieving the objectives of PAHO’s Disease Elimination Initiative. Key strategies were discussed, including the use of tools such as the Leprosy Elimination Monitoring Tool and the Leprosy Program and Transmission Assessment, which help track progress toward interrupting transmission and eliminating the disease. Workshops emphasized the importance of developing national action plans tailored to the specific needs of each country to ensure an effective elimination process. The event fostered collaboration among participating countries, reaffirming a joint commitment to achieving the milestones for leprosy elimination in the Americas.

The outcomes of this meeting are expected to influence the regional approach to interrupting transmission and eliminating leprosy, highlighting the need for a clear vision and coordinated efforts to advance the elimination not only of leprosy but also of other neglected tropical diseases.