Leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes, leading to symptoms like skin lesions, numbness, and muscle weakness. Leprosy spreads mainly through respiratory droplets from prolonged close contact. With early diagnosis and proper treatment using antibiotics, it is curable and nerve damage can often be prevented. If untreated, it can cause permanent tissue damage and deformities, but these are preventable with timely medical care. Leprosy is rare in most parts of the world today.