Colombo, January 30 – Sri Lanka has reported 1,800 cases of leprosy within the past year, with 12% of the affected individuals being children under the age of 15. Health authorities emphasize the importance of early detection and public awareness to prevent further spread.
Leprosy, caused by bacterial infection, remains a public health concern despite having a specific cure. Alarmingly, 6% of patients still exhibit visible injuries. Experts warn that social discrimination persists due to myths and misunderstandings surrounding the disease.
Dr. Dilini Wijesekara, Consultant Community Physician of the Anti-Leprosy Campaign, highlighted that, according to the World Health Organization, prolonged close contact—over 20 hours per week for about three months—with an infected person increases the risk of contraction.
In Sri Lanka, those diagnosed at skin disease clinics receive various forms of treatment. However, the presence of child patients raises concerns about early intervention and education to curb transmission.
- Pray for the healing of those affected by leprosy, especially the children (The Bible, Matthew 8:2-3).
- Ask God to grant wisdom to healthcare workers in their efforts to diagnose and treat patients early (The Bible, Isaiah 41:10).
- Pray against social discrimination and for increased public awareness about the disease (The Bible, Galatians 3:28).
- Seek God’s provision for medical resources and effective treatment programs (The Bible, Jeremiah 30:17).
News Source : Daily Mirror
Image Credit : Canva