Patients with leprosy are stigmatized and suffer discrimination.
The alert comes from Geoffrey Wandira, the Health Program Manager for Malteser International.Dr. Wandira told Good News Radio that leprosy patients in Lakes State are stigmatized and discriminated against by the members of the community, and some formed colonies and live away from the rest of the community.
He said that Malteser International fights against stigma through awareness programs, promising to use the radio more regularly to reach out to the local community with relevant information.
Mr. Wandira made these statements during the celebrations of Word Leprosy Day today in Rumbek.
The celebration was spearheaded by Malteser International in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health.