Child Leprosy

• Disease: Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused mainly by Mycobacterium leprae.
• Transmission: It spreads mainly through prolonged, close contact with an untreated person, generally through respiratory droplets.
• Children: Leprosy in children indicates ongoing transmission in the community and is an important public-health concern.
• Incubation: The disease has a long incubation period, often several years.
• Major Symptoms: Skin patches with loss of sensation, numbness, nerve damage and weakness of muscles.
• Nerves: It primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves, and can also affect the eyes and other tissues.
• Treatment: Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT).
• WHO: MDT is provided free of charge through WHO-supported programmes.
• India: India has adopted the goal of leprosy elimination as a public-health problem.
• Important Point: Early detection and treatment can prevent disability and transmission.

Prelims Question

Q. Consider the following statements regarding leprosy:

1. It is caused by Mycobacterium leprae.
2. It primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves.
3. Leprosy is incurable and requires lifelong treatment.
4. Children affected by leprosy can indicate continued transmission in the community.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)

Explanation: Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT).

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