Hansen's disease, also known as leprosy, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium *Mycobacterium leprae*. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract, eyes, and testes, leading to progressive and permanent damage if untreated. It is most common in tropical and subtropical regions. Track Hansen's disease activity and outbreaks specific to New Hampshire.
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Hansen's disease has been recognized for thousands of years, carrying significant social stigma throughout history. The causative bacterium, *Mycobacterium leprae*, was identified by Norwegian physician Gerhard Armauer Hansen in 1873. This discovery was a major breakthrough, shifting understanding from a mysterious ailment to a treatable disease.
Hansen's disease is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets, such as from coughs or sneezes, during close and prolonged contact with an untreated infected person. It is not highly contagious, and most people have natural immunity. Casual contact like shaking hands or sitting next to someone does not spread the disease.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance
Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Hansen's disease activity across New Hampshire. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.
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For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to New Hampshire, visit your state health department's website.
Whether you live in New Hampshire, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Hansen's disease prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:
If you experience symptoms of Hansen's disease in New Hampshire, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.
Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Trusted information from leading health organizations
Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization
View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-03
No confirmed cases reported in New Hampshire yet. Here are the latest Hansen's disease reports from our global surveillance network.
**Hawaii's former Hansen's Disease settlement to reopen for tours** HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Tours of Kalaupapa will reopen in late September 2025 after a five-year pandemic closure. The historic settlement on Molokai still has living patients, tucked along Molokai's rugged cliffs. …
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