Maharashtra Declares Leprosy a Notifiable Disease: A Step Towards Eradication
Maharashtra has taken a significant step by declaring leprosy a notifiable disease, requiring all diagnosed cases to be reported to health authorities. This move aims to enhance surveillance, early treatment, and prevention, aligning with national and WHO strategies.
LeprosyNotifiable DiseaseMaharashtraWhoMultidrug TherapyReal Estate MaharashtraNov 02, 2025
The Health Department’s notification, effective from October 30, 2025, makes leprosy a notifiable disease across all healthcare facilities, including government, private, NGO, corporate, and academic institutions. This step is framed as a public health measure under existing epidemic control provisions, ensuring comprehensive reporting and management of leprosy cases.
Every confirmed case of leprosy must be reported within two weeks to the District Health Office, Assistant Director (Health Services – Leprosy), and local municipal authorities. The order standardizes case registration and follow-up processes to ensure timely administration of multidrug therapy (MDT) and to reduce the number of drop-outs from treatment.
As of September 2025, Maharashtra recorded 7,863 new cases of leprosy, with 13,010 patients currently undergoing treatment. This high burden underscores the urgency of the state’s initiative. The government has set an ambitious goal of achieving a ‘Leprosy-Free Maharashtra by 2027.’ This target includes zero transmission, elimination of deformities in children, and an end to the stigma associated with the disease. Active case-finding and disability prevention are key components of the program.
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Multidrug therapy (MDT) is highly effective in curing the infection and is provided free of cost in public health facilities. With the new mandate, reporting of leprosy cases is now mandatory within 14 days of diagnosis in Maharashtra.
WHO and India endorse single-dose rifampicin post-exposure prophylaxis (SDR-PEP) for eligible contacts of leprosy patients. This prophylactic measure helps to prevent the spread of the disease. The notification aims to improve early detection and prevent disability due to late presentation of symptoms.
Health workers have been directed to identify and screen close contacts of index cases and administer SDR-PEP where eligible. Rigorous follow-up until the completion of treatment is also emphasized. Officials have urged the public not to panic and to seek medical care promptly if they notice symptoms such as numb skin patches and weakness. Early MDT not only prevents disability but also interrupts the transmission of the disease.
In conclusion, Maharashtra’s decision to declare leprosy a notifiable disease is a significant step towards achieving a leprosy-free state by 2027. By enhancing surveillance, ensuring timely treatment, and preventing disabilities, the state is making a concerted effort to eliminate leprosy and reduce the stigma associated with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a notifiable disease?
A notifiable disease is a condition that, by law, must be reported to public health authorities. This includes diseases like leprosy, which require mandatory reporting to ensure timely intervention and control measures.
When did Maharashtra declare leprosy a notifiable disease?
Maharashtra declared leprosy a notifiable disease effective from October 30, 2025.
What is the goal of making leprosy a notifiable disease?
The goal is to enhance surveillance, ensure early treatment, and prevent disabilities caused by delayed diagnosis. It also aims to reduce the stigma associated with leprosy and achieve a leprosy-free Maharashtra by 2027.
What is multidrug therapy (MDT) for leprosy?
Multidrug therapy (MDT) is a combination of drugs used to treat leprosy. It is highly effective and is provided free of cost in public health facilities. MDT helps to cure the infection and prevent the spread of the disease.
What are the symptoms of leprosy that people should be aware of?
Common symptoms of leprosy include numb skin patches, weakness, and loss of sensation in the affected areas. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent disabilities and reduce the spread of the disease.
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