Dimapur, Jan. 30 (EMN): The Anti-Leprosy Day was commemorated at the Chief Medical Officer’s office with the launching of sparsh leprosy awareness campaign on Jan. 30.
During the programme, ZLO NLEP Dr. Heto said the objective of the campaign is to address the issue of high level of stigma attached to leprosy and to increase awareness about the aspect of leprosy.
The thrust of this campaign is to promote community participation to reduce stigma and discrimination against leprosy, enhance early case reporting and reduce leprosy related disabilities, he informed.
Heto said through awareness and education, stigmas can be removed and the number of drop-out rates can be reduced.
During the campaign, he informed that health workers will visit public areas such as railway station, bus terminals, and hospitals and identified villages where new leprosy cases may be detected.
The bulk of leprosy cases in Nagaland are from Dimapur district as per the latest statistics, he said.
Dr. Heto also appreciated the NLEP staff for their sincerity and dedicated and appreciated the knowledge and practical experiences the staffs have on the NLEP programme.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Antoly said that leprosy is a disease that can be trace back to ancient times and it is still prevalent today. However, he said it is a curable disease and no stigma should be attached to it.
Antoly urged health workers to carry out the campaign with love and compassion for patients so that they may come forward and seek medical help.
Participants took pledge to work together and fulfil the dream of Mahatma Gandhi to create a ‘Leprosy-Free India.’
Awareness lecture: Also, in commemoration of Anti-Leprosy Day, Mokokchung battalion under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) organised a lecture cum awareness programme on leprosy on Jan. 30 in Mokokchung.
Unit Medical officer Capt. Saurav Dhand educated elders and youth about the symptoms and signs of leprosy, precautions, importance of proper treatment, and eradication.
The participants also took pledge to spread awareness to the remotest areas of the region.
