Can leprosy be contagious

Answer 1

Leprosy is contagious, but is not easily transmitted. It requires the transfer of body fluids to cause infection in another person. Generally, it is not infectious in all forms, and people undergoing long term treatment are not infectious. Most people who are in contact with leprosy fight off the bacteria and do not develop leprosy. Symptoms do not develop for at least a year after infection.

It is a disease caused by a bacteria Mycobacterium lepraethat infects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, and also the testes, kidneys, nasal linings, eyes and areas of the skin. It causes numbness, loss of movement and skin lesions. People with leprosy may injure themselves because of this numbness and loss of movement, or may lose mobility such as to the hands and feet. This can result in physical trauma and disfigurement. Leprosy can be treated with antibiotics. This will halt the progression of the disease, but damage to the nerves prior to treatment is permanent. Treatment is required for at least 6 months and possibly for life depending on the severity of the infection. Though leprosy was "beaten back" in recent times owing to advances in modern medicine, it is actually beginning to make a comeback in developing nations.

Answer 2

That depends on what is causing the lesion. One caused by an physical accident (an abrasion) is not contagious but if they are caused by pathogens (eg cold sores) then yes they are contagious.

Answer 3

yes, if blood exchange occurs. Needles used on those with the infection should be disposed of properly.

Answer 4

Some of them are.

But some diseases, such as Heart disease, are noninfectious and therefore are not contagious.

Answer 5

leprosy is contagious through respiratory droplets and nasal secretions