World Leprosy Day is observed every year on the last Sunday in January. Leprosy is a rare, chronic disease that is caused by infection with the bacterium mycobacterium leprae.
Over 20,000 people are diagnosed with leprosy every year. Leprosy is curable with medications.
We observe world leprosy day to raise awareness of a disease that is often misunderstood.
The following are common symptoms of leprosy:
- Pale-colored skin sores
- Lumps and bumps that are present for several weeks
- Loss of feeling in arms and legs
- Muscle weakness
Should you wear a medical ID for Leprosy?
Leprosy, like many other medical conditions, is not obvious at first glance. Everyday, people living with invisible diseases face challenges in receiving rightful privileges and accurate medical treatment.
National health organizations strongly recommend wearing medical IDs for invisible diseases as a simple way to communicate important medical information to medical professionals during an emergency.
