Facts about Hansen's disease
| • | Stigma of Hansen's challenges officials |
Advertiser Staff
• What is Hansen's disease? Hansen's disease, formerly known as leprosy, is caused by a slow-growing bacterium, Mycobacterium leprae, that mainly affects the skin, nerves and mucous membranes. Hansen's disease got its name from the Norwegian physician, Dr. Gerhard Armauer Hansen, who in 1873 discovered the bacterium that causes the disease.
• Can it be cured? The disease is 100 percent curable with a multi-drug antibiotic therapy administered on an outpatient basis. Treatment is free to patients.
• Do I need to worry about catching it? Among infectious diseases, Hansen's disease is one of the least contagious. It has not been proven exactly how the bacteria is transmitted, but it is thought to be spread through nasal secretions, combined with long-term contact. More than 95 percent of the population has a natural immunity to the disease, and most cases involve family members who have been in close contact for a number of years. You cannot get it from casual contact at work or at school.
• How can I get more information or arrange for a free in-home screening with a public health nurse? Contact the state's Hansen's Disease Branch on O'ahu at 733-9831, or call your local Public Health Nursing Office.
