Leprosy

Leprosy
More Facts on Leprosy

I have wanted to look up information on Leprosy since we are going to visit a Leprosy Center in the DR. Above are 2 links to read about it.

Leprosy was around even in the times when Jesus was here on earth and is still present today. In the past 20 years, 15 million people have been cured from it. 100 cases per year are diagnosed in the US. Most cases are in the South, California, Hawaii and the US. Islands. Leprosy or Hansen's disease (HD) is a chronic disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. There wasn't a good cure for it until as recent as the 1980's when multi-drug therapy became available.

Peripheral nerves and mucosa of the respiratory tract are affected, as well as the occurring of skin lesions. The incubation period (time between catching it and symptoms) can be a few weeks to 30 years. On average it is 3-5 years. If not treated, it can cause permanent damage to skin (numbness), nerves, limbs and eyes.

Early detection is important but some people don't want the stigma that goes with getting Leprosy. Colonies are not needed but still exsist. Leprosy reminds me of AIDS regarding the stigma & lack of information that we sometimes have regarding these diseases.

With Leprosy, a person untreated can be contagious in close physical contact. People that have been on long term treated are not contagious. We are visiting people that have been treated for Leprosy.

Lord, I pray for your eyes to see past any deformity and into a person's heart, to see them for who they really are. My hope is to be used by You and to serve those you love.