Leprosy is common in many countries in the world, and in temperate, tropical, and subtropical climates. Approximately 270 cases per year are diagnosed in the United States. Most cases are limited to the South, California, Hawaii, and U.S. island possessions. Effective medications have made the existence of leper colonies unnecessary. Recently, the emergence of drug-resistant mycobacteria leprae has caused increased concern about this disease.
Early recognition is important.
Early treatment limits damage by the disease, renders the person noninfectious, and allows for a normal lifestyle. Your Health Care Provider Call your health care provider if signs or symptoms described here occur, especially following exposure. Prevention Prevention consists of avoiding close physical contact with untreated people. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.