Hi, Thanks for posting in HCM. I understand your concern. Leprosy, also known as Hansen s disease (HD), is a long term infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. The exact mechanism of transmission of leprosy is not known. It is known to spread from person to person by nasal secretions or droplets. However, the disease is not highly contagious like the flu. There are also other possibilities such as transmission through insects which cannot be completely ruled out. Some researchers now conclude that susceptibility to leprosy may be partially inheritable. Initially, infections are without symptoms and typically remain this way from 5 to as long as 20 years. Hence, it would be better to take precautions to avoid contacting with the organism by: 1. Wearing a mask to cover mouth and nasal cavity when near the patient. 2. Washing hands frequently and use hand sanitizer to disinfect the fomites. 3. Gargle with warm salt water thrice a day. Hope the information provided would be helpful. All the best.