Following the successful conclusion of the RECLAIM II project, which supported 10 Self-Help Groups to become independent in eastern Nepal, the Jhapa Leprosy Reduction project has been established to increase our focus on reducing leprosy transmission in children under 18 years.
New leprosy cases amongst children is an indicator that there is active transmission of leprosy in a community. In the past year, among the new cases registered, it was identified that 43% of those were in children. This is significantly higher than the national average of 7%.
Continuing our partnership with Nepal Leprosy Fellowship (NLF) in Jhapa, eastern Nepal, targeted support will be provided in 6 municipalities to decrease the proportion of leprosy case numbers in children under 18 years to less than 10%.
Maintaining our partnership with the Ministry of Health, the project will roll out a leprosy screening package in schools, in collaboration with local health workers. The package includes screening of students, education on leprosy to teachers, parents and school nurses, and comprehensive contact tracing of students diagnosed with leprosy.
In addition, previously recorded leprosy cases who were not followed up at the time, will be contacted to conduct comprehensive contact tracing within their communities. This ensures that communities with potential leprosy cases in the area, who may not have links to the schools, will be reached.
The project will also continue their work to strengthen leprosy services within the health posts so that patients can receive appropriate care from skilled health workers.
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Please note: Donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible. Due to added security measures, donations below $10 can no longer be processed online. To make a gift $9 or less, please call us on 1800 LEPROSY (1800 537 767).
If the area of need becomes fully funded, your gift will go where most needed.
Supported by the Australian Government
The Jhapa Leprosy Reduction Project is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). Thanks to ANCP, this project is able to help improve the well-being of people affected by leprosy and disability in Nepal.
The Leprosy Mission Australia is a member of the Australian Council for International Development and is a signatory to the ACFID Code of Conduct. The Code requires members to meet high standards of corporate governance, public accountability, and financial management. The Leprosy Mission Australia is committed to full adherence to the ACFID Code of Conduct. More information about the ACFID Code of Conduct may be obtained by contacting The Leprosy Mission Australia or visiting the ACFID website. Complaints relating to a breach of the ACFID Code of Conduct can be made to the ACFID Code of Conduct Committee.
We are committed to disability-inclusive development.
The Leprosy Mission Australia is a member of the Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand, a network of organisations that support fairness in prices and wages, improved market access and poverty alleviation