Although the Health Minister, Molwyn Joseph, stressed that the nation has been free of the disease for more than two decades, he also emphasized the need for greater awareness of the disease among citizens.

He promised to use various means, including the Public Relations channels of the Health Ministry, to educate and convey information on the issue to citizens.

The Antigua News Room reported that Joseph highlighted the inclusion of leprosy treatment in the medical benefits scheme because of its chronic or prolonged care requirement, as well as the presence of the Infectious Disease Center, designed to isolate persons with such ailments in the island nation.

He urged the population to remain alert, participate in surveillance efforts and seek medical attention soon if they suspect any symptoms related to the disease.

Nations such as St. Lucia, also in the Caribbean, have recently stressed the importance of early detection and treatment of leprosy, given the discovery of new cases in the country and the existence of dozens of people living with the disease.

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