- If symptoms like white or numb spots on the body, numbness or eyelids not closing are observed, then get yourself examined at the nearest health centre.
Under the direction of Collector Mr. Vinay Kumar Langeh and the guidance of Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. I. Nageshwar Rao, patients are being provided timely treatment and rehabilitation facilities under the National Leprosy Elimination Program in the district. As a result, patients are now living a dignified life, free from disability.
A treated patient from the Bagbahara development block initially suffered from lagophthalmos (lack of eyelid closure) in the left eye and a grade-2 deformity in the right hand. Due to social hesitation and fear, he did not get himself examined for a long time.
In coordination with District Leprosy Officer Dr. V.P. Singh and District Program Manager Mrs. Neelu Dhritlahare, the team from the Community Health Center, Bagbahara contacted him and initiated treatment. Miniketan Chaudhary and his team from CHC Bagbahara ensured regular multi-drug therapy (MDT), specialized eye care, hand self-care training, and ongoing follow-up. Regular medication and self-care resulted in complete recovery of the eye, and improvement of the hand deformity. Now they are back to farming without fear.
The treated individual said, “I used to think leprosy would mean the end of my life, but the doctors and the team at CHC Bagbahara encouraged me. Today, my eyes are completely fine, and my hands are functioning normally. I want to tell everyone that leprosy is incurable; seek timely treatment.”
Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. I. Nageshwar Rao said that leprosy-related disability can be prevented through early detection, proper treatment, and regular self-care. District Leprosy Officer Dr. V.P. Singh appealed to people to immediately seek medical attention at the nearest health center if they notice symptoms such as white or numb patches on the body, numbness, or eyelids that won’t close. He explained that leprosy treatment is available completely free of charge at government hospitals.
