Cause
Mycobacterium leprae or leprosy bacili
Mode of Transmission
Airborne: inhalation of droplet/spray from coughing and sneezing of untreated leprosy patient
Signs and Symptoms
*long standing skin lesions that do not disappear with ordinary treatment
* loss of feeling/numbness on the skin
* loss of sweating and hair growth over the skin lesions
* thickened and/or painful nerves in the neck, forearm, near elbow joint and the back of knees
Immediate Treatment
Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT)
* Go to the nearest health center for immediate treatment
* treat all leprosy cases to prevent spread of infection
* young children should avoid direct contact with untreated patients
* practice personal hygiene
* maintain body resistance by healthful living
o good nutrition
o enough rest and exercises
o clean environment