Bhubaneswar: The State government plans to provide free vaccination to those who come into contact with leprosy patients, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling informed while attending a ‘Leprosy Awareness Campaign’ organized by the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare.
Despite having a modern and reliable treatment system for leprosy, many infected individuals hesitate to seek medical attention due to fear of social ostracism and superstition. This reluctance can lead to the spread of the disease and result in disabilities. To combat this, Odisha Health Department is distributing free medicines for leprosy patients.
Minister Mahaling stated that India aims to be leprosy-free by 2030, with a specific plan in place for Odisha. The state government will launch a new vaccination campaign, targeting family members of leprosy patients and those who care for them.
The World Leprosy Eradication Day was recently observed in Bhubaneswar, with the World Health Organization, Sasakawa Foundation, and the state government joining forces to promote a leprosy-free state and country. The event focused on creating awareness and discussing strategies to eradicate leprosy globally.
Leprosy patients from various districts in Odisha and 18 other states participated in the program, which was attended by Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling as the chief guest. Minister Mahaling emphasized the government’s commitment to eliminating leprosy from Odisha and India, in line with the Prime Minister’s vision and under the leadership of the Chief Minister.
