Indra Manenda Rossi, Jakarta – The Department of Health has reported that until 2006 14 provinces have been classified as 'leprosy endemic' based on the high rate of death caused by the chronic disease. However, funds for handling the disease are said to be insufficient.

"In fact, the death rate in the areas is extremely large," Kristina Widaningrum, the Section Head of Standardizing and Partnership of the Directorate of Leprosy and Frambosia Eradication at the Department of Health, said during a session of conveying information about Infectious Disease Eradication Wednesday (16/8) in Jakarta.

According to Kristina, the 14 provinces are Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, West Java, Central Java, East java, South Kalimantan, East Nusa Tenggara, South Sulawesi, Central Sulawesi, Gorontalo, South-East Sulawesi, North Sulawesi, North Maluku, Maluku and Papua. All of these regions are rife with the disease by virtue of several factors: nutrition, geographical position, people's awareness and the number of medical personnel.

In fact, according to Kristina, fund allocation for handling leprosy will amount to Rp3 billion this year. Actually, Kristina said, based on the existing endemic areas, they will need Rp10 billion each year. The funds will only be utilized for operational costs. The lack of funds will be covered by relief aid of contributing countries totaling Rp7.9 billion. "Foreign aid will be utilized for purchasing medicines and medical equipment in the regions," Kristina remarked.

Leprosy is an infectious disease attacking the edge of the nerves of organs. Based on the World Health Organization's data, Indonesia's cases of leprosy is positioned in the top three among Asian countries under India and Nepal.