WHO Celebrates Disease Elimination Achievements in South-East Asia

On September 8, 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) celebrated significant public health achievements across the South-East Asia Region. During the Seventy-ninth Session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia, key milestones in disease elimination were recognized, emphasizing the progress made by Member States in improving health outcomes. The Director-General of WHO, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, presented awards to health ministers and heads of delegation from various countries, highlighting notable successes in disease elimination, maternal and child health, and noncommunicable disease management.

Among the significant achievements, Timor-Leste received validation from WHO for the elimination of trachoma, a major public health problem. This accomplishment allows the South-East Asia Region to meet the global target for trachoma elimination, underscoring the effectiveness of concerted health initiatives. Bhutan also celebrated a historic milestone by becoming the first country in the region and only the second globally to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies. This success stems from Bhutan's One Health approach, which integrates human and animal health efforts, alongside extensive vaccination campaigns and surveillance.

Thailand's verification of rubella elimination marked another significant milestone, making it the seventh country in the region to achieve this status. This achievement reflects a sustained commitment to immunization and public health efforts. Additionally, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste were recognized for maintaining the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus for a decade, demonstrating strong national health systems and vaccination programs. Bangladesh was particularly acknowledged for achieving the Ending Preventable Maternal Mortality target, with a maternal mortality ratio of below 140 per 100,000 live births, ahead of the 2030 deadline.

Bhutan's commitment to newborn and child survival was also celebrated, as it exceeded its SDG targets for neonatal and under-five mortality rates. These accomplishments reflect the dedication of health authorities and the importance of organized health programs in improving health outcomes. The recognition of these achievements highlights the necessity of continued efforts in public health, as countries strive to maintain and build upon these hard-won gains. The future outlook for health in the region appears promising, with ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing maternal and child health, disease prevention, and management of noncommunicable diseases. The WHO's recognition of these milestones serves as a reminder of the collective efforts needed to sustain progress in global health.