What did people think leprosy?

Historically, leprosy was often viewed with fear and stigma, seen as a highly contagious and incurable disease. Many societies believed it was a punishment from God or a sign of moral failing, leading to the isolation of affected individuals in leper colonies. This negative perception contributed to the social ostracism of those diagnosed with leprosy, further entrenching the misunderstanding surrounding the disease. Over time, advancements in medical science have clarified that leprosy, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, is not highly contagious and can be effectively treated.