The Health Protection Agency (HPA), on Friday, revealed that only three cases of leprosy were recorded in Maldives during 2019 with an annual average of 3-7 reported during the last few years.
The statement was released amidst rising public concern over the removal of an announcement by the Health Centre of Faresmaathoda, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, which warned of an outbreak on the island.
Stating that it had launched a 'Zero Leprosy' campaign in June to completely eradicate the disease from Maldives by 2030, HPA revealed that entire populations of some inhabited islands including Faresmaathoda are being screened for leprosy as part of the campaign.
According to HPA, Faresmaathodaa Health Centre continued to encourage as many of the island's residents to participate in the screening programme.
HPA assured that the incidence of leprosy in Maldives was reduced enough to satisfy World Health Organisation (WHO) standards in 1997 despite rare reports of the disease. Leprosy was common in the country within the 1960's.
Furthermore, the agency guaranteed that it would oversee the treatment of any Maldivian diagnosed with leprosy until the individual is fully cured with the patient's family and friends receiving instructions on preventative measures to avoid contracting the disease.
HPA emphasized that leprosy could be completely cured with early diagnosis and treatment.
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