w * NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Advisory on Identification, Treatment, Rehabilitation and Elimination of Discrimination of Persons Affected by Leprosy Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease is an infection caused by slow-growing bacteria called Mycobacterium laprae. It mainly affects the skin and the nerves of the hands and feet as well as the eyes and the linings of the nose. If left untreated, leprosy can cause irreversible deformities of the hand, feet and face, blindness and kidney failure. Apart from the physical and bodily discomfort, persons affected by leprosy suffer serious stigma and social isolation. With advances in medicine, leprosy is now completely curable and can be rendered noncontagious by administering first dose of Multi-Drug- Therapy [MDT]. India accounts for 57% of the Global leprosy caseload. Most of the persons affected by leprosy live in deplorable conditions and suffer serious discrimination. To ensure timely identification, treatment and for elimination of discrimination against the persons affected by leprosy, the Commission issues this advisory. I. Early Detection 1. State Government should establish a helpline to ensure prompt reporting and medical attention to new cases of leprosy as well as development of acute signs and symptoms of lepra reaction/new nerve function impairment in existing patients 2. Union and/or State Governments should undertake periodic surveys to maintain an updated district-wise database of the leprosy affected persons. Such database should be prominently displayed on websites of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and each State. Grass root level organisations, civil society organisations and Accredited Social Health Activists [ASHA] should be involved in such surveys. 11. Treatment and Management of Leprosy and Associated Complications 1. State Government should:- (i] formulate guidelines and protocols for addressing the healthcare needs of the persons affected by leprosy. Page 1 of 22