World Leprosy Day observed in Wka, Zbto

World Leprosy Day (WLD) was observed on Sunday under the theme, “United for Dignity” calling for unity in honouring the dignity of people who have experienced leprosy.
The day is observed on the last Sunday of January to celebrate people who have experienced leprosy, raise awareness of the disease, and call for an end to leprosy-related stigma and discrimination, stated World Health Organization (WHO).
Wokha: National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP)Wokha observed the day at the Conference Hall of Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Wokha.
A press release by CMO Wokha office stated that in a keynote address, Zonal Leprosy Officer (ZLO) Wokha, Dr.N.Mhonchan Kithan said WLD was observed across the globe to achieve zero leprosy.
Dr. Kithan said three active leprosy patients in Wokha district were currently undergoing free treatment provided by NLEP. He lauded the health workers for reporting suspected cases and addressing stigma related to the disease and reminded them to conduct leprosy fortnight activities till February 13.
The programme commenced with invocation by accredited social health activist Mhayani Kithan; certificates of appreciation and cash amount were presented to six health workers for their contribution to leprosy activities conducted in the district. The participants also took pledge on SPARSH Leprosy awareness campaign which was read out by Para Medical Worker (PMW)Mhonthung Tsanglao while vote of thanks was delivered by PMW Yanbeni Jungio.
Zunheboto: With a vision for leprosy free Nagaland, World Leprosy Day under National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) was observed at the District Tuberculosis office, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Office Zunheboto.
A press release by CMO Zunheboto office stated that launching the campaign, DTO&DPO (UIP & RCH) Dr. Y. Aron Muru highlighted the significance of leprosy saying that it was completely curable and early treatment prevents disability.
He encouraged the staff under NLEP to be active and regular in their field visits so that leprosy does not re-emerge again though it has been eradicated from the district. Dr.Muru informed that free treatment was available in all Government Health Centres.