Action With Effect

Leprosy is a grossly misunderstood disease. Fear, ignorance, poverty and superstitious beliefs have all conspired to make lepers outcasts in their society. Social stigma about this crippling disease creates barriers in detection, treatment and cure of leprosy.

This disease is now very treatable and completely curable with modern drugs. Skin-to-skin contact for long and sustained periods of time would be necessary to transmit the disease.

Leprosy is a mildly infectious disease caused by a germ called Mycobacterium Leprae (M.Leprae) which was discovered by Dr. A. Hansen, a Norwegian scientist in 1873.

Symptoms are severe pain and muscle weakness, especially in the hands and feet causing loss of fingers and toes. Skin stiffness and blindness, pale patches on the skin with loss of sensation can be leprosy (hypopigmented patches). Enlarged nerves, especially those around the elbow and knee and oily, shiny copper-coloured skin can also be a sign of leprosy.

FACTS

 Leprosy is caused by a Germ.

 A pale or red patch on the skin can be an early sign of leprosy.

 Leprosy is not hereditary.

 Leprosy is completely curable with regular treatment.

 Leprosy is like any other disease and mildly infectious.

 Early detection and regular treatment prevent deformities and disabilities.

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