Challenges of the public health response to a rare case of non-autochthonous Mycobacterium leprae, Ireland, 2024

Euro Surveill. 2025 Jan;30(3). doi: 10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2025.30.3.2500033.

Abstract

This case report details the public health response to a multibacillary leprosy case in Ireland. The case presented with hypopigmented skin lesions and neurological symptoms. Challenges included delayed recognition in the clinical setting, contact tracing within a congregate setting and lack of specific Irish guidelines. Comprehensive contact tracing, chemoprophylaxis and follow-up care were implemented, guided by international protocols. This case underscores the need for tailored guidelines and stigma mitigation strategies for this neglected tropical disease in non-endemic regions.

Keywords: Chemoprophylaxis; Contact Tracing; Leprosy; Neglected Tropical Disease; Public Health; Stigma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Contact Tracing*
  • Humans
  • Ireland
  • Leprostatic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Leprosy* / diagnosis
  • Male
  • Mycobacterium leprae* / isolation & purification
  • Public Health

Substances

  • Leprostatic Agents