Categories: Important Days

World Leprosy Day 2021: 31 January

World Leprosy Day is observed around the world on the last Sunday of January every year. This year World Leprosy Day held on 31 January. The day is celebrated to raise global awareness of this deadly ancient disease and call attention to the fact that it can be prevented, treated and cured.

This year theme of World Leprosy Day 2021 is “Beat Leprosy, End Stigma and advocate for Mental Wellbeing ”.

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History of the day:

The day was initiated in 1954 by French philanthropist and writer, Raoul Follereau, as a tribute to the life of the Mahatma Gandhi who had compassion for people afflicted with leprosy.

What is leprosy?

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by a bacillus, Mycobacterium leprae (M. laprae). The symptoms of the disease occur generally after a long period of getting an infection on average 5 years, as M. leprae multiplies very slowly. The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes.

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Sumit Arora

As a team lead and current affairs writer at Adda247, I am responsible for researching and producing engaging, informative content designed to assist candidates in preparing for national and state-level competitive government exams. I specialize in crafting insightful articles that keep aspirants updated on the latest trends and developments in current affairs. With a strong emphasis on educational excellence, my goal is to equip readers with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their exams. Through well-researched and thoughtfully written content, I strive to guide and support candidates on their journey to success.