Tagged:

Fear Grips Malawi As Leprosy Resurfaces in Some Areas

Leprosy, one of the most dangerous contagious diseases, has resurfaced in the Malawi. Authorities say they have, so far, registered 150 cases of leprosy over the past few months, the National TB and Leprosy Programme Coordinator James Mpunga has said.

The county managed to eliminate leprosy in 1994. The government has recommended that two joint programmes for the elimination of leprosy and TB by 2030 be run jointly,  Mpunga said.

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. It is curable, and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability.

InFocus

Tim McKulka/UN Photo

(file photo).

Follow AllAfrica

AllAfrica publishes around 400 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.