Chief medical officer (CMO), Dimapur, Dr. I. Moatemjen launched the Leprosy Case Detection Campaign (LCDC) at CMO’s Office here on Monday.
At the launching programme, Dr. Ahu, State Programme Officer pointed out that leprosy, being, one of the oldest diseases in the world, a lot of myths and misconceptions about the disease prevalent in the olden days were still present today, which have resulted in stigma and discrimination associated with leprosy in the society.
He said leprosy was curable in any stage like any other skin diseases; the only difference was that leprosy if not treated can cause deformity.
He also informed that all the leprosy cases treated today were once hidden but were detected during LCD campaigns.
He, therefore, urged the Search Teams and Supervisors to continue working diligently during the campaign and refer any suspected case for confirmation and free treatment.
Dr. Valentina Neikha, District Programme Officer, National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) who chaired the programme emphasized on intensive Inter-Personal Communication during house to house visits to dispel misconceptions, stigmas and discriminations associated with leprosy.
Other officials who attended the programme were Dr. S.K. Dey, State Consultant for Leprosy, Dr. Tiala, CMO Chumukedima, Dr. Antoly Suu, DyCMO, Dr. Benchilo, DTO, Dr, Kavito, DPO (NVBDCP), Dr. Rebecca, DPO (RCH/UIP) and staff under CMO establishment.
Tuesday, July 1, 2025