Panaji: The directorate of health services which implements the National Leprosy Eradication Programme, has stated that leprosy is curable and that the disease which is caused by leprosy germs, can be cured with medicines that are available free-of-charge at all health facilities.The directorate has stated that the early symptoms of leprosy, usually starts as a patch with loss of sensation or as numbness and tingling in hands/feet. In such cases, the directorate has advised consulting health workers on occurrence of any of these.
Early detection with appropriate treatment helps prevent disability due to leprosy. Leprosy can be treated and once on treatment, a patient does not infect others and hence there is no question of segregating persons affected with leprosy.
“Once on treatment, the patient needs only compassion and empathy. Patients must take medicine daily during the treatment period. They must visit health facilities in case of problems and are advised to follow principles of self care,” an official said.