Children under 15 among 12% of annual leprosy cases

Moratuwa records highest pediatric numbers

1,282 new cases detected in 2025, including 123 children under 15  

Those with suspected symptoms urged to seek free treatment at government hospitals  

The public advised to send clear photographs of suspected skin lesions via WhatsApp to 075 40 88 604 for medical guidance

By Mangala Pavithrani 

Sri Lanka reports 1,500–2,000 leprosy cases annually, with about 12% affecting children under the age of 15, health authorities said today. Moratuwa has recorded the highest number of pediatric cases in recent years, according to officials.   

The announcement was made during World Leprosy Day, organised by the Leprosy Eradication Campaign of the Health and Mass Media Ministry at the Princess of Wales’ College auditorium in Moratuwa.   

Dr. Chathurarya Siriwardena, Dermatologist at the Central Leprosy Clinic of Colombo National Hospital, said that the highest numbers of leprosy and pediatric cases have been consistently reported from Moratuwa, with significant numbers also in Piliyandala, Ratmalana, and Batticaloa. The Western and Eastern Provinces currently report the highest overall cases, while Southern, North Western, and North Central Provinces also show notable numbers.   

“About 60% of identified patients are males, and leprosy can affect all age groups. Most patients belong to the 25–45 age group,” Dr. Siriwardena explained. He added that the disease primarily affects the skin but can involve other organs in advanced stages, and spreads through airborne bacteria released when untreated patients cough or sneeze.   

Dr. Yasoma Weerasekara, Director of the Leprosy Eradication Campaign, said that 1,282 new cases were detected in 2025, including 123 children under 15. She highlighted that around 8% of patients continue to suffer disabilities even after treatment, emphasizing early detection and timely care to prevent complications.   

Dr. Weerasekara urged those with suspected symptoms to seek free treatment at government hospitals and called on the public to dispel misconceptions about the disease and its treatment.   

Dr. Indira Kahawita, Dermatologist at Colombo National Hospital, added, “There is effective medicine for leprosy. Patients on treatment cannot transmit the disease. The real danger lies in failing to identify infected individuals, which could contribute to further spread.”  

Authorities encouraged the public to visit the nearest hospital skin clinic or outpatient department if suspicious symptoms appear. They also advised sending clear photographs of suspected skin lesions via WhatsApp to 075 40 88 604 for medical guidance.