Cuba Reports 124 New Leprosy Cases in 2025, Disease Remains...

What Happened

In 2025, Cuba recorded 124 new diagnoses of leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease. This infectious illness continues to be present on the island, even after health authorities declared its elimination as a public health problem over three decades ago.

Recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO) confirms that the bacteria responsible for the disease is still circulating in Cuba. This necessitates continuous health surveillance to monitor its spread and impact.

Where and When

The 124 new cases were identified throughout Cuba during the year 2025. While the country had reached the international indicator for leprosy elimination as a public health problem in 1993, cases continue to be detected annually.

In 2023, for instance, 123 diagnoses were reported, with a significant 95.9% of those being multibacillary forms, indicating a higher concentration of the bacteria.

Why It Matters

The continued presence of leprosy underscores the importance of ongoing public health vigilance. Early detection is crucial to prevent neurological damage and disabilities that can arise if the infection progresses without medical attention.

The disease primarily affects the skin and peripheral nervous system. Its persistence highlights the need for continued public awareness regarding symptoms and the importance of seeking timely medical care to manage and treat the condition effectively.

What the Parties Say

Dr. Raisa Rumbaut Castillo, head of the National Leprosy Program at the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), acknowledged the yearly detection of cases. She urged the public to be attentive to the initial symptoms.

The WHO supports Cuba's efforts by donating essential medications, including rifampicin, dapsone, and clofazimina, which are provided free of charge through the Cuban healthcare system. Health services also screen close contacts of diagnosed patients to identify potential new infections.

What Comes Next

The focus remains on early detection and treatment to prevent severe complications. Individuals should be aware of early signs such as pale or reddish patches with loss of sensitivity, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in hands and feet.

Once a patient begins treatment, they cease to be contagious after receiving the initial doses. Continued monitoring and the consistent supply of donated medications are vital for managing the disease effectively in Cuba.