Mandatory Reporting to Boost Early Detection
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has declared leprosy a notifiable disease, making it compulsory to report every diagnosed case within two weeks to the District Health Office, Assistant Director (Health Services – Leprosy), and local municipal health authorities. Officials said the move aims to curb the spread of the disease and ensure timely treatment for patients.
Directive Aims to Strengthen Surveillance
According to the new mandate, all healthcare providers—both public and private—must follow the reporting timeline, news agency IANS reported. The enhanced surveillance system is expected to help track infections more efficiently and prevent delays in medical intervention.
Understanding Leprosy and Its Symptoms
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae. Symptoms may include discoloured skin patches, numbness, muscle weakness, deformities of the hands, feet, and face, and difficulty closing the eyes, often leading to poor vision. Although the disease is entirely curable, stigma and misinformation continue to deter people from seeking treatment.
Focus on Eliminating Disabilities
The Health Department stressed that early diagnosis and full treatment are essential to prevent disability and deformities among patients. Awareness campaigns will be intensified to address fear and misconceptions.
State Sets Target for Leprosy-Free Maharashtra by 2027
The government has outlined an ambitious roadmap to eliminate leprosy by 2027. Key goals include breaking the chain of transmission, reducing new infections to zero, preventing deformities in children, and eliminating social stigma against affected individuals.
Healthcare Workforce Directed to Ensure Compliance
Doctors in both government and private sectors, along with pathologists, microbiologists, field workers, and healthcare staff, have been instructed to strictly follow treatment protocols and maintain proper follow-up. Authorities have also directed the administration of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) to close contacts of confirmed cases.
Current Situation in Maharashtra
As of September 2025, Maharashtra has reported 7,863 new cases of leprosy, with 13,010 patients currently undergoing treatment. Health officials reassured the public that there is no cause for panic, emphasising that timely diagnosis and treatment ensure complete recovery.
Expert Highlights Need to Notify Only Infectious Cases
Commenting on the new directive, infectious disease specialist Dr. Ishwar Gilada said, “Not all leprosy cases are infectious. Neuritic leprosy—which affects peripheral nerves—is non-communicable. Hence, while making it notifiable, only infectious leprosy should be considered.”
