Leprosy - What it is and the Road Ahead

Let's talk about the bacterial infection and some quick facts about the disease Leprosy.

An acid fast and rod shaped bacteria is what is responsible for causing this infection. Leprosy is a chronic infection. It damages or effects the skin, mucous of upper respiratory tract, eyes and the peripheral nerves. Leprosy is fully curable and WHO has established a 3 drugs multi-drug therapy which is being given free world over since year 1995. If treated in earlier stages, no disability is caused to the patient. World Health Organisation had set a target of year 2000 for eradication of the disease and while it has been eradicated from majority of the places, it still remains endemic in selected places like few districts of India.