Reaching those at risk: Active case detection of leprosy and contact tracing at Kokosa, a hot spot district in Ethiopia.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Leprosy is a chronic mycobacterial disease of public health importance. It is one of the leading causes of permanent physical disability. The prevalence of leprosy in Ethiopia has remained stagnant over the last decades. The aim of the study was to identify new leprosy cases and trace household contacts at risk of developing leprosy by active case detection. The study area was Kokosa district, West Arsi zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia.

Method

A prospective longitudinal study was conducted from June 2016-September 2018 at Kokosa district. Ethical approvals were obtained from all relevant institutions. Health extension workers screened households by house-to-house visits. Blood samples were collected and the level of anti-PGL-I IgM measured at two-time points.

Re

SUBMITTER: Lema T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10284383 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature