Bauchi records 81 new cases of leprosy

Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis/Leprosy and Malaria (BACATMA) said that 81 persons including children have been infected with new cases of Leprosy disease in the state

Executive Chairman BACATMA Dr Sani Muhammed Dambam, disclosed this in Bauchi during a press conference as part of activities marking this year’s World Leprosy Day.

He said the 2019 statistics showed the percentage of children among the new cases was 6%, indicating leprosy transmission still ongoing in the communities and percentage of cases diagnosed with visible disability (G2D) was 10 percent.

"This indicates that the state has achieved the global elimination target of 1 case per 10,000 population," he said.

He said that the two major leprosy indicators, percentage of children among new cases, and percentage of new cases with visible disability continue to pose new challenges, adding that the socioeconomic needs of the affected persons and communities, and taking concrete measures to end the stigma are often the reason for diagnosis which is very important.

The chairman explained that to effectively combat the stigma, voices should be mobilized to counter harmful social attitude through multisectoral approach with laws and regulations against discrimination of persons suffering leprosy.

"The aim of World Leprosy Day celebration is to change this attitude and increase public awareness of the fact that leprosy is still prevalent in our community, but can now be easily prevented, diagnosed and cured free of charge," h said.

He lamented the low community awareness on early signs and symptoms of leprosy, as well as leprosy case notifications among the populace, and dwindling financial support with the close out of major international partners notably Netherlands Leprosy Relief, as challenges facing the control of the diseases in the state.

He called on all stakeholders’ especially international partners, religious and traditional leaders, media organizations to intensity efforts to control leprosy in the state.