Sri Lanka, Jan. 22 -- A total of 1,282 leprosy patients were identified in the country in 2025, the Director of the Leprosy Eradication Campaign, Dr. Yasoma Weerasekara noted.

Dr. Weerasekara noted that around 10% of the reported cases, approximately 123 patients, are schoolchildren under the age of 15.

She made these remarks while addressing a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau.

Dr. Yasoma Weerasekara further noted that nearly 8% of newly identified patients had already developed disabilities at the time of diagnosis.

Speaking further, Dr. Yasoma Weerasekara said:

"All necessary treatment methods are provided free of charge at government hospitals, and there is no delay in offering treatment. However, the main issue ...