The Leprosy Truck has arrived in Itapeva, São Paulo, where it offers free consultations with specialists, rapid tests to detect leprosy, and guidance on prevention and treatment until Friday. The services are available from 8 AM to 12 PM and from 1 PM to 5 PM at the Zico Campolim Events Square. To receive care, patients must present a photo ID and CPF, with a focus on individuals displaying symptoms compatible with the disease, such as skin patches of various colors accompanied by altered sensitivity.

This initiative is particularly aimed at those who may have symptoms of leprosy or who have lived or interacted with leprosy patients within the last five years, even if they do not show any signs of the disease. Those experiencing numbness, tingling, or cramps may also be eligible for care. The program highlights the importance of early detection and community awareness in tackling leprosy, a disease often stigmatized and overlooked in society.

Overall, the Leprosy Truck’s arrival is a significant step in public health efforts to provide accessible medical care to a community that may otherwise face barriers in seeking treatment. This outreach aims to increase awareness and reduce the transmission of leprosy through education, early diagnosis, and effective treatment strategies, demonstrating a commitment to improving public health in the region.