Saint Lucia recorded 11 new cases of leprosy which represents a 120 per cent increase from 2020 to 2023. Photo: iStock

The Health Ministry said it is monitoring the situation in St Lucia and Barbados where the disease was detected for the first time in several years.

Saint Lucia recorded 11 new cases of leprosy which represents a 120 per cent increase from 2020 to 2023.

The Health Ministry said St Vincent and the Grenadines had not detected a case of leprosy since 2019.

“While Leprosy was once feared to be a highly contagious and devastating disease, the Ministry would like to reassure the public that leprosy does not spread easily and treatment is very effective. However, if left untreated, the nerve damage associated with leprosy can result in deformities of hands and feet, paralysis, and blindness,” the ministry said.

“St Vincent and the Grenadines has not seen any new cases of leprosy for the period 2022- January 15th. 2024.”

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is caused by the Mycobacterium leprae.

The Health Ministry said leprosy spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and someone else breathes in the droplets containing the bacteria repeatedly (over a prolonged period of time).

The disease can affect the nerves, skin, eyes, and lining of the nose (nasal mucosa).

The ministry said: “With early diagnosis and treatment, the disease can be cured. It’s important to note that people with Leprosy disease can continue to work and live an active life during and after treatment.”

Vincentians have been urged to take usual precautionary measures against respiratory infections such as covering mouths and nostrils when coughing and washing hands frequently.