What is Hansen’s disease?
Hansen’s Disease (HD), commonly known as leprosy, is a long-term disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. This condition involves the body’s immune response to the bacteria and affects the skin, eyes, throat, mouth, and the nerves, affecting muscle tone. Skin nodules or plaques will develop. If left untreated, permanent disfiguration and disability can occur. Cases of HD are well-documented in history, and cases still continue to exist today. How is Hansen’s Disease spread? The bacteria which cause HD are thought to be spread through repeated contact with respiratory droplets of an infected person over a prolonged period of time. Approximately 95% of the world’s population is naturally immune and would not get sick if exposed to the bacteria. Experts are unsure as to why some people are more immune to the bacteria than others. Who is at risk for Hansen’s Disease? Persons at greatest risk for HD are family members or household contacts of a case who is not receiving treatme
