World Leprosy Day 2021 #BeatLeprosy

The World Leprosy Day (WLD) takes place on the last Sunday of January worldwide except India. In India, WLD is celebrated on 30 January, the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s death. It was established in 1954 by French philanthropist and writer, Raoul Follereau, as a way to raise global awareness and call attention to the fact that leprosy can be prevented, treated and cured.

World Leprosy Day is the global platform to raise public awareness of leprosy, including the medical and social implications of the disease and the rights of persons affected.

About diseases

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract and the eyes. Leprosy is known to occur at all ages ranging from early infancy to very old age. Leprosy is curable and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability.

Leprosy is likely transmitted via droplets, from the nose and mouth, during close and frequent contact with untreated cases.

Day 2021

This year, World Leprosy Day takes place on 31 January 2020, and we celebrate the efforts to #BeatLeprosy. WLD aims to help spread the word that #LeprosyIsCurable, the fight to #EndStigma, and advocate for the #MentalWellbeing of persons who have experienced leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases.

Message

• DYK? #LeprosyIsCurable! With Multi-drug therapy, people are no longer infectious and can lead healthy, productive lives.
• Why do people hide their #leprosy symptoms? Stigma and discrimination are major barriers to seeking a diagnosis. Luckily, #LeprosyIsCurable and treatment is free!
• With Multi-drug therapy, people are no longer infectious and can lead healthy, productive lives.
• #LeprosyIsCurable, and it’s possible to stop transmission. Single-dose rifampicin post-exposure prophylaxis is a viable way to interrupt #leprosy transmission.
• This #WorldLeprosyDay, we recognize the impacts of #COVID19 on the #leprosy community and celebrate the persons affected by #leprosy who are leading response efforts on the ground
• This #WorldLeprosyDay, we recognize the impacts of #COVID19 on the #leprosy community and celebrate the persons affected by #leprosy who are leading response efforts on the ground.

Source of info: WHO & Zero Leprosy

#WorldLeprosyDay #BeatLeprosy #LeprosyIsCurable #EndStigma #ZeroDiscrimination #MentalWellbeing #WLD2021 #BeatNTDs #NTDs