In a groundbreaking achievement, Chad has eliminated the gambiense form of human African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness. It became the first country in 2024 to be recognised for eliminating a neglected tropical disease, as confirmed by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This landmark makes Chad the 51st country globally to attain such a milestone, underscoring the nation’s significant progress in public health.
This accomplishment represents the halfway mark towards the WHO’s ambitious goal of having 100 countries eliminate at least one neglected tropical disease by 2030. This target is part of the WHO’s 2021-2030 Roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases, which sets four major global health objectives. “I congratulate the government and the people of Chad for this achievement.
It is great to see Chad join the growing group of countries that have eliminated at least one NTD. The 100-country target is nearer and within reach,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
Sleeping sickness, or human African trypanosomiasis, the disease Chad has successfully eliminated, initially causes flu-like symptoms but can eventually lead to severe neurological issues, including behavior changes, confusion, sleep disturbances, coma, and often death. The key to Chad’s success has been improved access to early diagnosis and treatment, alongside robust surveillance and response measures. Chad joins a prestigious list of countries that have eradicate.
