An enhanced regimen as post-exposure chemoprophylaxis for leprosy: PEP++

Authors: Mieras LF, Taal AT, van Brakel WH, Cambau E, Saunderson PR, Smith WCS, Prakoeswa CRS, Astari L, Scollard DM, do Nascimento DC, Grosset J, Kar HK, Izumi S, Gillini L, Virmond MCL, Sturkenboom MGG.

Source: BMC Infect Dis. 2018 Oct 5;18(1):506.

Summary

The ongoing transmission of Mycobacterium (M.) leprae, reflected in a very slow decline in leprosy incidence, forces us to be innovative and conduct cutting-edge research. Single-dose rifampicin as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for contacts of leprosy patients reduces their risk to develop leprosy by 60%. This is a promising new preventive measure that can be integrated into routine leprosy control programmes, as is being demonstrated in the Leprosy Post-Exposure Programme that is currently ongoing in eight countries.