Health in Malaysia
Leptospirosis is a water contract disease caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospirabacterial. It is a disease that affects both humans and animals. The number of leptospirosis cases had steadily increased from 2011 (2,268 cases with 55 death) to 2015 (8,291 cases with 78 death) and 5,284 cases with 52 death in 2016. Leptospirosis can have important health impact and is a burden to the nation if not well controlled. Addressing leptospisoris includes maintain a clean environment and by not swimming or wading in water that might be contaminated with animal urine, or eliminating contact with potentially infected animals.
Leprosy stigma
Since 1995, WHO has supported the eradication of Hansen’s disease through the administration of free multi-drug treatment worldwide and the promotion of education of Hansen’s disease to erase stigma towards Hansen’s. Although the goal for the complete eradication of leprosy in 2020 seems infeasible for “zero patients” due to the long period of M. leprae dormancy, the WHO has shifted towards a “Final Push” Strategy focusing on early detection to reduce disabilities. Moreover, most patients do not die from leprosy but from other diseases and complication—not the bacteria infection itself. In addition, people may survive for many years but still have leprosy or survive with disabilities.