frequently answered

The Leprosy Mission International – Ethiopia registered as an international NGO with the Charities and
Societies Agency.

Is leprosy contagious?

Despite the fact that leprosy is not particularly contagious, it can still spread from person to person. You can’t catch it by touching someone. Leprosy must be exposed for many years in order to be contracted. When a person with the infection coughs or sneezes, the bacterium is presumably disseminated by airborne droplets.

What causes leprosy?

The bacterium Mycobacterium leprae causes leprosy. It can harm the eyes and nose in addition to infecting the skin and harming the nerves. Most often, it occurs in poor regions. Leprosy was once thought to be a dangerous and highly contagious illness, but today we know it is not contagious and that treatment is very successful. However, if the nerve damage is not addressed, it can lead to blindness, paralysis, and the paralysis of the hands and feet.

Can leprosy be transmitted from animals to humans?

Leprosy transmission from animals to humans is extremely uncommon. This typically occurs where there has been close contact, such as when eating or raising armadillos as pets. Most leprosy patients have contracted the disease from other people.

Why is leprosy also called Hansen's Disease?

Hansen's disease is the official term used to describe leprosy. The bacillus was originally observed under a microscope by a doctor, Armauer Hansen of Norway, in 1873.

What happens to pregnant women who have leprosy?

Most women with leprosy have normal pregnancies and deliver healthy babies. Patients on treatment do not transmit leprosy to their babies.

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