Leprosy: a disease still beyond control

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, characterized by marked clinical, immunological, and evolutionary heterogeneity. Despite a substantial reduction in global prevalence following the introduction of multidrug therapy (MDT), annual incidence rates remain stable, indicating ongoing transmission. Current treatments have significantly reduced disease burden but have not achieved eradication. They are also increasingly challenged by the emergence of drug resistance, particularly to rifampicin. Preventive strategies rely mainly on chemoprophylaxis and BCG vaccination, both of which show partial and inconsistent effectiveness.