CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Leprosy Eradication Day was observed at Civil Hospital, Govindpura Hathaikheda, in the esteemed presence of Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Backward Classes & Minority Welfare, Vimukt, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Welfare Krishna Gaur and Minister of State for Public Health & Medical Education Narendra Shivaji Patel. The event commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and garlanding of Mahatma Gandhi, followed by a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence.

During the event, the dignitaries pledged their commitment to leprosy awareness and eradication efforts. Grip aids and protective footwear were distributed to leprosy patients, and individuals who had recovered from leprosy shared their experiences. Additionally, the Emergency Department, Maternity Ward, PNC Ward, and Nutrition Rehabilitation Center of Civil Hospital, Govindpura, were inaugurated. The event was attended by senior dermatologist Dr. Manish Rathore, local council members, recovered leprosy patients, and officials from the health department.

Key Highlights from Ministerial Addresses:

Minister Krishna Gaur emphasized that Mahatma Gandhi dedicated his life to serving leprosy patients and eliminating discrimination and untouchability. She stated that PM Modi’s ongoing efforts have turned Gandhi’s vision of cleanliness into a nationwide habit. She also highlighted that Civil Hospital, Hathaikheda, has been established as a healthcare milestone for the Govindpura region, with continuous expansion of medical facilities.

Minister Narendra Shivaji Patel noted that the Government of India has set a target to eliminate leprosy transmission by 2027. The Madhya Pradesh government is actively working at all levels to achieve this goal, ensuring that leprosy diagnosis and treatment are available free of cost at government health centers. Additionally, patients are provided with custom-made footwear, grip aids, utensils, and self-care kits to assist in daily activities. He urged people not to ignore early symptoms of the disease and seek timely medical intervention.

Expert Insights on Leprosy:

Senior dermatologist Dr. Manish Rathore explained that leprosy is caused by the Bacillus Mycobacterium leprae. The disease spreads through airborne droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze. The bacteria grow very slowly, and symptoms appear about five years after infection. Leprosy primarily affects the skin, nerves, and eyes, with common symptoms including:

Loss of sensation in skin patches

Numbness in hands or feet

Weak eyelids

Painless wounds

Burning sensation or swelling in affected nerves

Leprosy Awareness Fortnight (January 30 – February 13):

Chief Medical and Health Officer of Bhopal, Prabhakar Tiwari, stated that Leprosy Eradication Day is observed annually on January 30, Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary. This year, the theme is “Ending Stigma, Embracing Dignity”.

As part of Leprosy Awareness Fortnight, the campaign will run until February 13, featuring:

Awareness activities to prevent discrimination against leprosy patients

POD (Prevention of Disability) camps at health institutions

Skin screening camps

Health check-ups for individuals in contact with leprosy patients

Key Facts About Leprosy:

Leprosy is completely curable.

Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) prevents disabilities and halts disease transmission.

Early diagnosis and completing the full treatment course can prevent complications.

The disease does not spread through casual contact like touching, playing, or working together.

However, prolonged close contact with untreated patients can increase transmission risk.

#LeprosyAwareness #HealthCampaign #KrishnaGaur #PublicHealth #DiseasePrevention