Romania reports its first leprosy case in more than four decades, after a woman from an Asian country infected at a Cluj‑Napoca massage salon.
Confirmation and Key Details of the Outbreak
Romania’s Ministry of Health confirmed a leprosy case involving a woman working as a massage therapist in Kluź-Napoka, a city in northern Romania. She is a national of an Asian country, and two other staff members from the same origin were also suspected.
The health authorities suspended the operations of the salon while comprehensive investigations were carried out. The affected patient was admitted to a hospital for treatment.
Romania’s First Leprosy Case in Over 40 Years
The last reported case in Romania occurred in 1981, making this the first detection in more than forty years. Leprosy remains very rare in Europe, typically affecting individuals traveling from Asia, Africa, or South America.
Background on Disease Rarity and Typical Sources
Lepra, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, has a long incubation period of 2–5 years and a chronic course. It attacks the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract mucosa, and eyes. The World Health Organization notes that while the disease can cause disfigurement, it also leads to stigma and discrimination.
Transmission, Symptoms and WHO‑Recommended Treatment
The WHO states that leprosy spreads through nasal and oral droplets, requiring prolonged, close contact for transmission. Symptom onset includes skin lesions and peripheral neuropathy. Once treatment begins, patients no longer transmit the disease.
WHO recommends a multi‑drug therapy (MDT) consisting of dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine over 6 to 12 months.