There have been two reported cases of Hansen’s Disease or leprosy at the Enterprise Government Primary School.
This was confirmed by TTUTA president Martin Lum Kin, who said in a GML report: “The two students are siblings; and we were informed that the parents of the siblings tested positive for the disease.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Hansen’s disease (also known as leprosy) is an infection caused by slow-growing bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. It can affect the nerves, skin, eyes, and lining of the nose (nasal mucosa).
Lum Kin said staff was informed earlier this week but he complained there was a slow response from officials as to what the next steps would be. He noted the school was sanitised yesterday.
Lum Kin called on his members to remain vigilant not just about this, but also Covid-19 and other illnesses which can spread.
“We are hoping that the Ministry of Health can also give updates and guidelines for our nation, especially as we are in the Carnival season. There’s going to be close contact with members of the public that the to be vigilant and also be cautious,” Lum Kin said.
The CDC notes however, “Hansen’s disease does not spread easily from person to person. You cannot get leprosy through casual contact such as shaking hands, sitting next to, or talking to someone who has the disease.”
Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby Dolly said: “As outlined in a document sent to the Ministry of Education officials from the Ministry of Health, the parent of two students has Hansen’s disease and was scheduled to start treatment. Once in treatment, the parent is considered non-contagious. Based on tests done, the children pose no threat of contagion. The school was closed and sanitized yesterday, and is open for regular session today. MOH officials met with the staff and Principal of the school to share pertinent information about the matter, and to clarify any questions they would have had.”