Leprosy is a disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium Leprae, also referred to as Hansen 's disease. This bacterium attacks the nervous system and numbs those extremities in the cooler parts of the body -hands, feet and nose. The most common symptom is discolored patches of skin that lose their sensitivity.
If left untreated, leprosy can affect the peripheral nerves which can cause the fingers and toes to claw inward and the eyes to lose their ability to blink, causing blindness. The biggest risk of injury is due to ulcers and infections in the hands and feet that often occur because when no pain is felt, cuts, bruises and burns are ignored. Untreated infections can become so severe that disfigurement and amputations may result.
If caught early disability can be completely avoided, as the cure comes into effect within a couple of days of starting treatment. Early diagnosis is imperative because though the progression of leprosy can be halted, disability cannot be reversed. Sadly leprosy is as much a social disease as a medical one; fear, misunderstanding and stigma lead many hiding rather than seeking the help that they need. The Leprosy Mission works to reduce stigma through advocacy of Human Rights, community education and integration. Working alongside those affected by leprosy, and their local governments, to help find solutions and understanding.
Is there Leprosy in New Zealand?
In New Zealand there are less than 10 cases of leprosy diagnosed every year. It is highly unlikely that you will get leprosy here in New Zealand, mainly because your body's immune system will deal with any bacterium that enters your body, and additionally because leprosy and poverty so often go hand in hand because of weakened immune systems. Generally those who catch this disease have low immune systems due to the extremely poor environments in which they live.
