Fight against leprosy far from over

Sumit Hakhoo

Tribune News Service

Jammu, January 28

The state has been able to control the prevalence of leprosy but its eradication remains a challenge for health department officials.

The influx of a large number of migrant labourers from high endemic states is a constant worry for those associated with the National Leprosy Eradication Programme, especially in the Jammu division.

As per data, 72 patients are registered with the Zonal Leprosy Officer in Jammu and a majority of the fresh cases reported are of migrant workers. A few cases also come from residents of the state.

Zonal Leprosy Officer, Jammu, Dr Jyoti Gupta said J&K falls in the low-prevalence region but the disease was yet to be eradicated.

“Our main focus is on migrant workers from the states which have high disease prevalence. Leprosy is curable but there are concerns as many people don’t get registered and leave the medication midway. These hidden cases can become active transmitters within their communities,” said the Zonal Leprosy Officer.

The state government launches a month-long awareness campaign from January 30 every year. This year, the focus will remain on the vulnerable population, tribal communities and those who were on medication for the disease.

“For complete elimination, there is need for a robust tracking mechanism of patients which at present is lacking. The government is extending help to patients but the focus should remain on identifying the vulnerable section,” said Dinesh Gupta, Honorary Secretary, Indian Red Cross Society.

The state launched the first-ever National Leprosy Eradication Programme in 1962. It was renamed the National Leprosy Elimination Programme in 1983.

As per the World Health Organisation, leprosy, also known as the Hansen’s disease is a chronic infectious disease caused by mycobacterium leprae. Although a majority of the people are immune to the bacteria, people with low immunity can contact the disease from an infected person during regular interaction.

72 patients registered in Jammu

• As per data, 72 patients are registered with the Zonal Leprosy Officer in Jammu and a majority of the fresh cases reported are of migrant workers
• The government launches a month-long leprosy awareness campaign from January 30 every year. This year, the focus will remain on the vulnerable population, tribal communities and those who were on medication for the disease