KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 20- Leprosy is an infection that can be easily treated if detected early, according to General Medical Doctor Dr. Kohila Devan Murugan.

He explained that the treatment for leprosy typically takes between six months to two years, depending on the severity of the infection, and involves a combination of several types of antibiotics.

Despite this, efforts to tighten preventive measures continue to reduce new cases in Malaysia.

"Early detection and prompt treatment are key. Anyone showing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Patients undergoing Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) are no longer contagious within a few days to weeks of starting treatment," he told RTM.

Dr. Kohila also emphasized the need for family members of patients to undergo screening for early signs of leprosy, and if necessary, receive preventive or prophylactic antibiotics.

He further highlighted the importance of maintaining good personal hygiene and overall health, such as regular handwashing and sustaining the immune system through a healthy lifestyle, to lower the risk of infection.

Although Malaysia has achieved a low leprosy elimination rate of less than one case per 10,000 people, these preventive measures remain essential to keep the disease under control.