Table of Contents
Content Information
A. Isolation and Quarantine Requirements
Minimum Period of Isolation of Patient
No restrictions, but should be under medical care.
Minimum Period of Quarantine of Contacts
No restrictions.
B. Protection of Contacts of a Case
Handwashing is recommended for all contacts of lepromatous cases, and appropriate disposal of nasal discharges of the case should be considered during the infectious period.
C. Preventive Measures
Detection and treatment of cases is needed to prevent further spread. Antibiotics for treatment can be provided through the National Hansen’s Disease Program.
Preventive Measures/Education
- Education of the case should stress the availability and efficacy of therapy.
- Education on the importance of following the medication regime exactly.
- Education of the case’s household contact(s) should include modes of transmission, preventive therapy (if appropriate), and referral to a healthcare provider for follow-up.
- It is important to convey to the case and contacts the low communicability of this disease and the availability of effective treatment and prevention regimens.
Iowa Dept. of Public Health, Reviewed 7/15