Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Ten new leprosy patients have been found during 15-day screening programme, which will continue till February 13. Out of them, two patients are Paucibacillary (PB) and eight are Multibacillary (MB) patients.
Under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme, along with quality and free treatment, specially made slippers, utensils and self care kits have also been provided to patients so that they do not face any problem in daily activities.
In the fortnight, 45 patients have been provided MCR sandals, self care kits and grip aids (utensils with plastic handles) to protect numb hands from burning. Health check-up of 312 patients was undertaken. During this period, awareness and counselling sessions were organised in 42 schools and 322 anganwadis to inform about the symptoms of leprosy.
Chief medical and health officer Bhopal Dr Prabhakar Tiwari said, “When leprosy person coughs or sneezes, the leprosy bacteria present in the water droplets coming out of his respiratory system mixes with air and reaches the body of another person. Symptoms of the disease appear about five years after infection.”
The disease mainly affects the skin, nerves and eyes. Lack of sensation in skin patches or spots, numbness in hands or feet, weakness of eyelids, painless wounds, burning sensation in hands and feet, swelling or pain in the affected nerves are the main symptoms of leprosy.”
