Leprosy
Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, an acid-fast, rod-shaped bacillus. The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. Leprosy is curable and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability.
Girls and women affected by Hansen’s disease face the added issue of gender and social discrimination, which may also delay detection of the disease
Many people living with Hansen’s disease are unable to work due to disability caused by the disease or may face stigma that prevents them from working.
The good news is that Hansen’s disease is curable with medicines.