From skin to nerves: Key facts about Leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious illness caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae.

It mainly affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract and eyes.

The disease spreads through prolonged, close contact with untreated patients, mainly via respiratory droplets.

Early symptoms include light or reddish skin patches with reduced sensation, numbness and muscle weakness.

Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy provided free by the World Health Organization.

When treated early, the disease does not cause disability and transmission is prevented.