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- The Odisha government took the significant step of declaring leprosy a reportable disease within the state.
- About Leprosy:
- Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, a type of bacteria.
- The disease primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract, and eyes.
- If left untreated, leprosy can lead to progressive and permanent disabilities.
- It is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
- Leprosy is classified as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), with over 200,000 new cases reported annually across more than 120 countries.
- It can occur at any age, from childhood to old age.
- Transmission:
- Leprosy is transmitted through droplets from the nose and mouth.
- Close and prolonged contact with untreated individuals over months is typically required to contract the disease.
- It is not transmitted through casual contact such as handshakes, hugging, sharing meals, or sitting together.
- Symptoms:
- Symptoms usually manifest 3 to 5 years after exposure to the bacteria.
- The primary symptom is disfiguring skin sores, lumps, or bumps that do not heal for weeks or months.
- Nerve damage can lead to loss of sensation in the arms and legs, muscle weakness, and, in some cases, nasal symptoms like a stuffy nose or nosebleeds.
- Treatment:
- Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT).
- Early treatment can prevent disabilities and transmission of the disease.
- Once treatment begins, patients cease to be contagious.
- The Odisha government's decision to declare leprosy a reportable disease underscores its commitment to effective disease management and prevention within the state, aiming to enhance public health initiatives and reduce the incidence of this debilitating condition.