What is the scientific name of the bacterium that causes leprosy?

Author: Leandro Alegsa

Q: What is the scientific name of the bacterium that causes leprosy?


A: The bacterium that causes leprosy is called Mycobacterium leprae.

Q: Who discovered this bacterium?


A: The bacterium was discovered by Gerhard Armauer Hansen.

Q: How many new infections of leprosy were estimated in 2004?


A: In 2004, it was estimated that there were about 400,000 new infections of leprosy.

Q: How does one get infected with leprosy?


A: To get infected with leprosy, one must have close contact with someone who has it for a long period of time.

Q: What percentage of people are naturally immune to the disease?


A: About 95% of people seem to be naturally immune to leprosy.

Q: Where do most cases of leprosy occur?


A: Most cases of leprosy occur in India and other developing countries.

Q: Are there any cases in developed countries today?


A: There are practically no cases of leprosy in the developed world today due to excellent drugs and regular use antibiotics which kill the bacteria causing it.


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