Leprosy, now known as Hansen's disease, is one of the oldest diseases known to mankind and unfortunately it still exists. We should "Act Now" to "End Leprosy".
31 Jan, 2023
Hansen's disease, also known as leprosy, is a chronic infectious illness caused by Mycobacterium leprae. The impact of leprosy on people like us goes beyond the physical, particularly impacting mothers and their babies. Leprosy primarily affects skin, peripheral nerves, and mucosal surfaces. The disease can appear in various forms, ranging from mild skin lesions to severe neurological complications. For pregnant women, challenges are amplified as the body changes during pregnancy may alter the course of leprosy, complicating both diagnosis and management.
Source: ThehealthsiteA chronic infectious disease, leprosy caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium leprae. It affects the skin, peripheral nerves, eyes, and mucosa of the upper respiratory tract.
Source: ThehealthsiteHowever, it's most common in people aged five to 15 or those over 30. It is transmitted via droplets from the nose and mouth.
Source: ThehealthsiteIt is a mildly infectious disease. It is most often transmitted through repeated, close contact with an untreated person for a longer period.
Source: ThehealthsiteSymptoms of leprosy can appear from within one year to as long as 20 years. These include muscle weakness or paralysis, painless skin ulcers or lesions, eye problems.
Source: ThehealthsiteTimely detection and early treatment can cure the disease by 6-12 months. If not diagnosed and treated on time, it can result in debilitating disabilities.
Source: ThehealthsiteIf the infected person has received multi-drug therapy (MDT) which involves use of a combination of antibiotics, for 72 hours, they are no longer contagious.
Source: ThehealthsiteEvery year World Leprosy Day is observed on January 30 to increase public awareness about the disease. This year, the theme was “Act Now, End Leprosy”.
Source: ThehealthsiteThanks For Reading!