Hansen's Disease: Leprosy

I'm reading a very interesting book called Moloka'i, by Alan Brennert.  The historical information in the book is accurate.  Moloka'i was a leper colony for many years.  Anyone who had leprosy or was suspected of having leprosy was sent to the island for a cure, but more likely for life.  Reading this book peaked my interest, so here are some current day facts on the disease called Hansen's disease, or leprosy.

Hansen's disease is an infection caused by a slow growing bacteria.  It can affect the nerves, eyes and lining of the nose.  It can be very disfiguring.  However, with early diagnosis and treatments, it can be cured.  Those that have it can lead a normal, active life.

Once feared highly contagious and devastating, we now know it doesn't spread easily and treatment is very effective.  If lef untreated, it can result in crippling of hands and feet, paralysis and blindness.

Back in the late 1800's and early 1900's when leper colonies were established, the cause and cure of the disease were unknown.  Thus, it was decided to separate those with the disease from the rest of society.  We know better now, but for those inflicted with the disease  a hundred years ago, a life of isolation and poor health was almost a certainty.  We have come a long way.