Deputy Health Minister Nguyen Thi Xuyen has urged the five remaininglocalities where leprosy still exists to carry out more drastic measurestowards a Vietnam free from leprosy-related issues by the end of 2015.

Speaking at a conference in central ThuaThien-Hue province on July 24 to review the five-year implementation ofthe National Leprosy Eradication Programme, Xuyen spoke of theachievements of the programme, especially in improving public awarenessof the disease.

As of June 2015, 58 out of the63 provinces and centrally-run cities had eradicated leprosy. Theremaining includes Ho Chi Minh City, central Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuanprovinces and the Central Highlands provinces of Gia Lai and Kon Tum.

The number of new lepers discovered annuallyreduced from 374 in 2011 to 187 in 2014 and 86 in the first half of2015. All patients have received accurate treatment and non-judgmentalcare.

Yet neglect is being seen in severallocalities that have already eradicated leprosy. As such, Xuyenrequested they maintain their results by mobilising resources to preventthe disease.

Looking forward, the health sectorwill continue leprosy prevention efforts, speed up communications onhealthcare, intensify health check-ups, provide health insurance forlepers and people with disabilities caused by leprosy and maintaininternational cooperation and scientific research.

The National Leprosy Eradication Programme is also expected to beincluded in the National Target Programme on Health to affirm theParty’s and State’s diligence and monitor achievements.-VNA