Leprosy

Similar term(s): Hansen disease.

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae, which affects the skin and nerves.

If left untreated, it can lead to progressive and permanent damage of nerves, loss of sensation and sweating in the extremities. It can paralyse the muscles in the hands, feet and face.

Source: GreenFacts

There are many countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America with a significant number of leprosy cases.

An estimated one to two million people are visibly and irreversibly disabled due to past and present leprosy who require to be cared for by the community in which they live.

Source: GreenFacts, based on WHO Leprosy: the disease 

Español: Lepra
Français: Lèpre
Nederlands: Lepra

Global Public Health Threats