For more than 30 years, leprosy was considered almost extinct in Europe: now several diseases have been confirmed in two countries. But fear of an outbreak is misplaced.
Dec 21, 2025, 05:57Dec 21, 2025, 05:57
Melanie Rannow / t-online
Cases of leprosy have appeared in Romania for the first time since 1981, and the first in over 30 years has been confirmed in Croatia. This is reported by local media. The chronic bacterial disease, which is actually declining worldwide, was discovered in foreign workers. According to the authorities, however, there is no danger to the general population.
Four cases in Romania, one confirmed case in Croatia
In Cluj-Napoca (Romania), four men of Asian origin tested positive for leprosy. They worked in a massage parlor, which has now been temporarily closed and completely disinfected. All contact persons were also medically examined. Authorities are currently conducting epidemiological investigations.
According to Romanian Health Minister Alexandru Rogobete, these are the first recorded cases of leprosy in 44 years. Those affected are currently receiving medical treatment.
Croatia also reported a case of leprosy – the first since 1993. The patient comes from Nepal and has been living with his family in Split for two years. According to Bernard Kaić from the Croatian Institute of Public Health, the case was detected early. As a precaution, close contacts receive so-called post-exposure prophylaxis, even though they have not yet shown any symptoms.
Important to know
Leprosy is difficult to transmit. Infection usually requires close and long-lasting contact. Transmission through brief encounters is unlikely.
What is Leprosy?
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It usually develops gradually and mainly affects the skin, nerves and eyes. Typical first signs are light or reddish patches of skin, where the sensation of pain and temperature is often reduced. As it progresses, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness and paralysis may occur, especially in the hands, feet or face. The eyes can also be affected, for example through dryness, sensitivity to light or – if left untreated – gradual blindness. In severe, untreated cases, there is a risk of permanent nerve damage, limb deformities and chronic skin infections.
Important: Leprosy is curable. Treatment involves a combination of antibiotics over a period of six to twelve months. It is crucial to start therapy early. It prevents complications and significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Why is leprosy resurfacing?
According to the WHO, over 170,000 new cases occur worldwide every year, especially in countries such as India, Brazil, Indonesia and on the African continent. According to experts, the return to Europe is not a sign of an outbreak, but a consequence of global mobility.
In Switzerland, leprosy is considered to have been virtually eradicated. Cases also occur rarely, and only if a person had previously entered the country from a higher risk area. In Germany, an average of one to two cases are registered per year, mostly due to introduction during travel or migration. The current cases in Eastern Europe also involve people from countries where the disease is still widespread. (t-online/con)
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