How Do You Prevent Leprosy? -- An Overview
Given the folklore that still surrounds the disease, many people wonder, "How do you prevent
leprosy?" Although researchers have not found a vaccine that will prevent the disease, they are actively looking. Because leprosy can be cured with medicines, an early diagnosis will reduce
leprosy symptoms and complications. Therefore, while prevention of leprosy is not always possible, especially where leprosy is endemic, control should be possible.
How Do You Prevent Leprosy for Household Contacts?
In order to prevent leprosy, people who live in the same household (household contacts) as a person with leprosy will need to be examined by a physician. These examinations should be done annually for five years. It is important to note that the degree of natural immunity is high and there is generally no need for preventative medicine. However, if you are a household contact and you develop a questionable skin rash, you should have a skin biopsy to determine whether or not leprosy is present.
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