The effect of Corona virus disease 2019 on the care and prevention ofLeprosy, the case of Boru Meda, Amhara region,Ethiopia, 2020

Abstract

Introduction: Corona pandemic was unexpected challenges of the globe that results multi-dimension problem. When the state of emergency declared, and different resources are mobilized for the prevention of Corona pandemic some health facilities were committed for the isolation and treatment centerfor COVID-19. Meanwhile, other diseases including leprosy patients are unable to get care, and prevention due to inaccessibility of the health facilities.

Methods:Aggregate secondary data from the Amhara regional health bureau and Boru Meda General Hospital were used. 

Result: From the regional data 76.36% and Boru Meda General Hospital 51.6% new leprosy patients to be diagnosed and to be treated were not come to the health institution due to Corona pandemic. Due to lockdown and repurposed of the health institution strictly to Corona pandemic, leprosy patients with neuropathic ulcer which can be treated and healed with antibiotics and routine nursing care were become complicated and needs amputation (increased by 300%). 

Conclusion: Still leprosy is one of the community health problems in Ethiopia, however one can considered leprosy as eliminated. Currently, children with age less than 15 were get leprosy with disability grade II. 

Recommendation: Community mobilization, capacity building, active case surveillance and early case diagnosis and treatment should be carried out.