Leprosy a Reportable Disease In The State : Odisha Government
The Odisha government recently declared leprosy a reportable disease in the state.
- Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by a type of bacteria, Mycobacterium leprae.
- The disease predominantly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, the mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes.
- Left untreated, the disease may cause progressive and permanent disabilities.
- It is more common in tropical and subtropical areas.
- It is a neglected tropical disease (NTD)that still occurs in more than 120 countries.
- It is known to occur at all ages, ranging from early childhood to old age.
- The disease is transmitted through droplets from the nose and mouth.
- Prolonged, close contact over months with someone with untreated leprosy is needed to catch the disease.
- The disease is not spread through casual contact with a person who has leprosy, like shaking hands or hugging, sharing meals, or sitting next to each other.
- It usually takes about 3 to 5 years for symptoms to appear after you come into contact with the bacteria that cause leprosy.
- The main symptom of leprosy is disfiguring skin sores, lumps, or bumps that don’t go away after several weeks or months.
- It is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT),and treatment during the early stages can prevent disability.
- Moreover, the patient stops transmitting the disease when they begin treatment.
