439 leprosy cases detected in DK, Udupi districts within six years


Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi 

Mangaluru/Udupi, Feb 24: A total of 439 leprosy cases have been reported across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts in the last six years, raising health concerns in the region. Alarmingly, 363 of these cases have reached the multibacillary (MB) or second stage of the disease.

Leprosy is classified into different stages based on severity. The paucibacillary (PB) or first stage is identified when there are one to five skin patches and only one nerve is affected. The multibacillary (MB) or second stage is characterized by more than six skin patches and the involvement of more than one nerve. Health data indicates that the coastal region is seeing a high prevalence of these second-stage cases.

District-wise breakdown

In Dakshina Kannada, out of 295 total cases reported over the period, 264 are in the multibacillary stage. In Udupi district, out of 144 total cases, 99 have reached the second stage.

Health officials have noted that the progression of the disease to more serious stages is often due to initial negligence. Patients frequently ignore the appearance of white or copper-coloured patches on the body, leading to more severe complications before seeking medical help.

Medical experts emphasize that early detection is key to preventing the spread and ensuring effective treatment. Residents are urged not to ignore any unusual skin discolouration and to consult health authorities immediately to prevent the disease from advancing to a critical state.

 

 

 

  

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Comment on this article

  • Sunil Fernandes, Kota

    Wed, Feb 25 2026

    It’s a serious concern regarding increasing negligence observed in the public health system, especially with the recent re emergence of diseases that were previously eradicated or well controlled. This situation indicates serious gaps in healthcare planning, disease surveillance, vaccination efforts, and general preventive measures. Government’s primary focus should be on strengthening essential public services such as healthcare and education. These are fundamental pillars that directly impact the wellbeing, productivity, and long term progress of society. However, it is disappointing to note that significant time and public funds continue to be allocated to non essential activities and large-scale religious or cultural structures—such as statues, temples, churches, mosques, and similar projects. While cultural heritage is important, it should not come at the cost of weakening critical public health infrastructure. Hope Govt’s will take necessary steps on immediate basis to address this issue.

    DisAgree Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • Malinga, Kudla

    Wed, Feb 25 2026

    439 is a very big number. Government has completely failed in creating an awareness about leprosy. It is no more a non curable disease. In spite of getting enough funds to curtail leprosy, the government failed. Responsible officials need to be punished.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [10] Reply Report Abuse

  • Dr Ramesh Bhat M, Mangalore

    Tue, Feb 24 2026

    This is a wrong information. The total number of cases is in six years not in six months. Please get correct information from district health authorities.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [18] Reply Report Abuse

  • Richard Arun Dsa, Ambalapady, Udupi Karnataka.

    Tue, Feb 24 2026

    There is advanced treatment now available in India for Mycobacterium leprae infection ,that too free of cost. Fear cause patients to hide symptoms and avoid seeking treatment. Leprosy is curable with multi drug therapy (MDT), with short term treatment through qualified dermatologists.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [18] Reply Report Abuse


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Title: 439 leprosy cases detected in DK, Udupi districts within six years



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