Are there known cases of leprosy now?

Yes, leprosy is still present today, although it is much less common than it once was. In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 127,558 new cases of leprosy worldwide. Most cases occur in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in parts of Africa, Asia, and South America.

Leprosy is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium leprae. It is spread through close contact with an infected person, usually through respiratory droplets or through skin contact. The disease primarily affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes. Symptoms can include skin lesions, nerve damage, and loss of sensation in the affected areas.

Leprosy is curable with early diagnosis and treatment. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics and other medications. Multi-drug therapy (MDT) is the recommended treatment regimen, and it can effectively cure leprosy if taken properly.

Efforts to control leprosy have led to a significant decline in the number of cases worldwide. However, the disease still remains a public health concern in some areas. Continued efforts are needed to promote early diagnosis, provide treatment, and prevent the spread of leprosy.