Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, an acid-fast, rod-shaped bacillus. Leprosy is one of the oldest recorded diseases in the world. The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract and also the eyes, apart from some other structures. Leprosy is not highly infectious. It is transmitted via droplets, from the nose and mouth, during close and frequent contacts with untreated cases. Leprosy is curable and treatment provided in the early stages averts disability. In the last few years there is a decrease in the prevalence of leprosy. But high endemicity still remains in some areas of Angola, Brazil, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nepal, and the United Republic of Tanzania. These countries remain highly committed to eliminating the disease, and continue to intensify their leprosy control activities.

History - World Leprosy Day was created in 1954 by Raoul Follereau “so that people affected by leprosy could be cared for like all others who are ill and so that that those in good health could be cured of their absurd and often criminal fear of this disease and those who are affected by it”. He also initiated ILEP, a federation of associations fighting against Leprosy. International Federation of Anti-Leprosy Associations (ILEP) is an international federation of fifteen non-governmental anti-leprosy organisations, based in London, U.K. which is involved in raising awareness and raising funds for Leprosy and it's related issues. He also created the International Foundation Raoul which is responsible for disseminating the message of their founder and educate local people, associations. Follereau supports projects for rehabilitation of disabled patients and let them regain their independence and their place in the society. World Leprosy Day is observed internationally on January 31 or last Sunday of January, each year, to increase the public awareness of the Leprosy or Hansen's Disease. ILEP members working in the field in leprosy endemic countries obtain MDT (Multidrug Therapy) supplies free of charge from WHO, via the national programme (Ministry of Health). In some countries or areas facing civil strife, or where the Ministry of Health has specifically requested it, WHO may supply ILEP members directly

Events -  Various concerned organisations conduct awareness education programmes for students. Competitions in painting, written quiz, essay-writing and singing are held in various educational institutes. In many other countries fund-raising and awareness-raising events are also held.

Alternate Name - World Leprosy Eradication Day.

Holiday Status - It is not a public holiday.