Rajneesh Sharma
Hamirpur; On the occasion of World Leprosy Eradication Day, Dr. Surinder Singh Dogra, President of HMOA Hamirpur and Vice President of the Joint Employees Federation (State), raised awareness about leprosy. He explained that leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious condition caused by the Mycobacterium leprae bacteria. The disease primarily affects the skin, nerves, upper respiratory tract, and eyes.
Dr. Dogra highlighted early symptoms such as patches on the skin, numbness, difficulty in moving fingers and toes, and watery eyes. He emphasized that while leprosy spreads through prolonged exposure to an infected person's cough or sneeze, it is not highly contagious. With timely treatment, long-term disabilities can be prevented, and the disease is completely curable.
He urged people to dispel myths surrounding leprosy, seek medical advice at the first sign of symptoms, and ensure timely treatment. He also noted that the government and health department are actively working towards the eradication of this disease.