Following a year-long shortage that left thousands of patients, including children, without necessary medication to prevent disabilities, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed that it will send leprosy drugs to Nigeria this weekend.

Leprosy, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, affects over 1,000 people annually in Nigeria, primarily targeting the skin, nerves, and eyes. While the disease is treatable with multi-drug therapy (MDT), without prompt treatment, it can lead to severe disabilities, including blindness and paralysis. The stigma surrounding the disease further complicates the challenges faced by patients.

Nigeria is one of the twelve countries worldwide where leprosy remains endemic, with Brazil, India, and Indonesia also among the most affected. These countries report between 1,000 and 10,000 new cases annually.

In early 2024, Nigeria’s stock of MDT ran out due to the new domestic testing laws that caused supply delays in India, where one of the main drug components is made, which in turn caused the delay in drug shipments.

Meanwhile, the WHO spokesperson confirmed to Reuters that a one-time waiver for the new testing policy was granted in January, allowing for the resumption of drug shipments.

“A dispatch of leprosy drugs from India has been confirmed for 8 March, with arrival in Nigeria on 9 March,” the spokesperson said by email.