Dr. Raíza Rumbaut Castillo, who oversees the National Leprosy Program for Cuba's Ministry of Public Health, issued a warning this Tuesday to Cuban citizens regarding the early indicators of Hansen's disease. During an interview broadcast on Canal Caribe's "Buenos Días" program, she emphasized the necessity of seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms.
Despite being a relatively rare condition, leprosy cases are diagnosed annually in Cuba, confirmed the infectious diseases expert. "Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is an infectious and transmissible disease that impacts the skin and peripheral nervous system. It's crucial for the public to be informed," Dr. Rumbaut Castillo stated.
The doctor highlighted three key symptoms that should prompt a medical consultation: light or reddish skin patches with reduced or lost sensitivity, numbness or tingling, and decreased muscle strength in the hands and feet.
Understanding the Risks and Transmission
Peripheral nerve damage is a significant concern, as it can lead to disabilities if not detected early. "Early detection is critical due to the potential for peripheral nervous system damage, which can result in the serious disabilities people fear," she explained.
Dr. Rumbaut Castillo also addressed common misconceptions about leprosy transmission, clarifying that it is not easily spread. "Contrary to popular belief, leprosy requires close, prolonged household contact to transmit. It doesn't spread through casual contact like kissing, hugging, or touching, nor by sharing a ride," she noted.
Treatment and Public Perception
The disease is curable, assured the doctor. Treatment involves a combination of rifampicin, dapsone, and clofazimine, provided by the World Health Organization and administered for free by family doctors and nurses. The disease becomes non-transmissible after the initial doses.
When a family member is diagnosed, healthcare teams examine all close contacts for symptoms. Dr. Rumbaut Castillo urged families to remain calm and support affected relatives: "We must stay calm, support the sick family member, and avoid placing blame."
The mention of active leprosy cases surprised many Cubans on social media, particularly amid existing outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya, and hepatitis A. "Is there leprosy too?" questioned one user, while another added, "My goodness! Another stripe for the zebra." A Cuban woman shared her experience with the disease, expressing her gratitude: "Thank you. I know what leprosy is because I've had it."
Historical Context and Ongoing Challenges
Some readers recalled leprosy's long-standing presence on the island. Active cases were reported in Las Tunas as recently as March 2025, including among children, and a 2018 health alert in Villa Clara highlighted a leprosy outbreak. Though Cuba eliminated leprosy as a public health issue in 1993, new cases have continued to surface, with 123 reported in 2023, 95.9% of which were multibacillary.
Dr. Rumbaut Castillo concluded by urging respect for those afflicted: "A person with leprosy could be someone's beloved partner. It's vital to treat them with the dignity they deserve and remember these truths: leprosy is curable, it's non-transmissible after initial treatment, and patients should be supported, not discriminated against."
Key Insights into Leprosy in Cuba
What are the early symptoms of leprosy?
Early symptoms of leprosy include light or reddish skin patches with reduced sensation, numbness or tingling, and decreased muscle strength in the hands and feet.
Is leprosy highly contagious?
Leprosy is not highly contagious. It requires close, prolonged household contact to be transmitted and does not spread through casual contact.
How is leprosy treated in Cuba?
Leprosy is treated using a combination of rifampicin, dapsone, and clofazimine, provided for free by the World Health Organization and administered by family doctors and nurses.