Leprosy Outbreak Reported in Malaysia with 1 Death, 8 Confirmed Infections and Many More Suspected Cases

Medical News: Rising Concerns Over Leprosy in Negeri Sembilan
A leprosy outbreak has been reported in the Malaysian state of Negeri Sembilan, specifically in Kuala Pilah, where an 18-year-old girl succumbed to the disease following a week-long fever. As of February 2025, eight additional cases have been confirmed, with many more suspected. The outbreak has prompted state authorities to implement stringent control measures, including quarantining two affected villages, Kampung Chergun and Kampung Guntur.


Leprosy Outbreak Reported in Malaysia with 1 Death, 8 Confirmed Infections and
Many More Suspected Cases

Despite assurances from Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad that the cases are isolated and not widespread, concerns remain over the possibility of further transmissions. This Medical News report aims to provide an in-depth understanding of leprosy, its transmission, symptoms, treatment, and preventive measures, shedding light on Malaysia's ongoing battle against this disease.
 
Understanding Leprosy: What You Need to Know
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces, and eyes. If left untreated, leprosy can lead to severe disabilities and long-term health complications. Despite the historical stigma associated with the disease, modern medical advancements have made leprosy both preventable and treatable.
 
Leprosy has been documented in human history for thousands of years, with evidence tracing back to India nearly 4,000 years ago. Despite leprosy being a curable disease with the help of multidrug therapy (MDT), outbreaks still occur, especially in communities with limited access to healthcare.
 
Leprosy in Malaysia: A Resurfacing Threat
While leprosy is not common in Malaysia, the country has witnessed a rise in cases in recent years. In 2023 alone, 256 cases were reported, marking a 40% increase from the previous year. Available data indicated that as of May 2024, 66 confirmed cases had been recorded, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance.
 
Malaysia had previously been a pioneer in combating leprosy, achieving the WHO elimination target of less than one case per 10,000 people in 1991. However, sporadic outbreaks suggest that the disease still lingers, especially in vulnerable communities.
 
How is Leprosy Transmitted?
Leprosy spreads mainly through prolonged, close contact with an untreated infected person. The bacteria responsible for the disease are transmitted via respiratory droplets expelled from the nose and mouth. However, leprosy is not highly contagious and does not spread through casual interactions such as shaking hands, sharing meals, or being in close proximity to an infected person for short durations.
 
The disease has an unusually long incubation period, ranging from five to 20 years. This means that many individuals may be infected without showing symptoms for years, making it difficult to detect and control outbreaks promptly.
 
Recognizing the Symptoms
Leprosy manifests in different ways, but the most common symptoms include:
-Skin lesions that appear lighter than the surrounding skin with numbness or reduced sensation
-Thickened or dry skin
-Painless swelling or lumps on the face
-Muscle weakness or paralysis
-Vision problems that may eventually lead to blindness
https://www.cdc.gov/leprosy/hcp/clinical-overview/index.html
 
Because of its slow progression, leprosy often goes unnoticed in its early stages. Delayed diagnosis can result in severe nerve damage, leading to deformities and disabilities.
 
Treatment and Prevention
Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT), a combination of antibiotics provided for free by the WHO. The standard treatment duration ranges from six months to a year, depending on the severity of the infection. Early treatment is essential to prevent complications and stop the spread of the disease.
 
The only vaccine currently available that provides some protection against leprosy is the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine, though its effectiveness varies.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473309906704121/abstract
 
Preventive measures include early detection, timely treatment, and improved public awareness to reduce stigma and encourage affected individuals to seek medical attention.
 
Measures Taken in Negeri Sembilan
Following the confirmation of the nine cases, including the fatality, authorities in Negeri Sembilan have enforced strict control measures. The affected villages, Kampung Chergun and Kampung Guntur, have been placed under quarantine to prevent further transmission. Additionally, the District Health Office has temporarily closed the Jeram Tengkek recreation center as a precautionary measure.
 
Screening efforts have been intensified, with about 65% of the residents in both villages tested as of January 22. Further screenings were scheduled for February 15 in Kampung Chergun and February 22 in Kampung Guntur to identify and isolate potential new cases. The Ministry of Health has assured that all necessary medical supplies and food provisions for affected residents will be managed through local representatives and village committees.
 
Rising Cases: A Cause for Concern?
The number of leprosy cases in Malaysia has been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2021, 142 cases were reported, rising to 183 in 2022 and 256 in 2023. The latest outbreak in Negeri Sembilan raises concerns about whether Malaysia will meet its goal of eliminating new local leprosy cases by 2030.
 
While leprosy itself is not directly fatal, untreated cases can result in severe disabilities, secondary infections, and reduced quality of life. The 18-year-old girl’s death in Kuala Pilah highlights the need for timely medical intervention and increased public awareness about the disease.
 
Conclusion
The recent leprosy outbreak in Negeri Sembilan underscores the importance of early detection, timely treatment, and continuous public health surveillance. While leprosy is not highly contagious and is curable, its long incubation period and the potential for severe complications make it a disease that cannot be ignored. Authorities must remain vigilant in their efforts to contain the spread, ensuring that affected individuals receive proper medical care and that communities are educated about prevention and treatment options.
 
Malaysia has made significant progress in its fight against leprosy, but the resurgence of cases serves as a reminder that there is still work to be done. Enhanced screening, continued public health interventions, and strengthened healthcare access for at-risk populations are essential in the battle against this ancient disease.
 
For the latest updates on the Leprosy Outbreak in Malaysia, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
 
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