Unveiling Leprosy Trends through the COVID-19 Lens: A 6-Year Analysis

Objectives This study analysed clinical and epidemiological patterns of leprosy over 6 years, focusing on three periods: before (2018–2019), during (2020–2021) and after COVID 19 pandemic (C19P) (2022–2023). Materials and Methods Retrospective data, including demographic, clinical and treatment details, were collected from the district leprosy officer. Results Of 92 cases, 67 (72.8%) were male and 25 (27.2%) female, with most (54, 58.6%) aged 15–45, and 5 (5.4%) childhood cases. Local residents accounted for 78 cases (84.7%) and migrants 14 (15.3%). Multibacillary leprosy was prevalent (76, 82.6%), with borderline lepromatous as the most common type (37, 39.6%). Lepra reactions (LRs) occurred in 13 cases (8 T1R, 5 T2R), and 31 (34.6%) had deformities, mainly Grade 1 disabilities in 21 cases (22.8%). During COVID-19 (2020–2021), cases dropped from 44 to 12, with a relative increase in deformities. Post-C19P (2022–2023) showed 35 cases, 9 LRs and 17 deformities, marking a 20% rise in reactions and deformities from pre-C19P. Conclusion C19P disrupted leprosy management, leading to more deformities and LRs. Attention to coinfections is crucial, as viral infections can worsen leprosy outcomes, underscoring the need for vigilant care during outbreaks.