World Leprosy Day is observed on the last Sunday in January to raise awareness of a disease that many people believe to be extinct. A key goal of World Leprosy Day is to increase public understanding of Hansen’s disease and tackle the social stigma attached to this completely curable disease.

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease. Leprosy is curable, and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability. Education and improving access to basic health services for all are keys to successful elimination of stigma and disability associated with the illness.

Get involved with World Leprosy Day by:

• Educating yourself and others about Hansen’s disease and sharing that leprosy is a curable illness
• Helping depict a positive image of leprosy and increase awareness about it in your community
• Getting involved in World Leprosy Day activities

For more information, visit: https://www.who.int/news-room/events/world-leprosy-day https://www.cdc.gov/leprosy/world-leprosy-day/index.html