Leprosy cases are rising in Florida, with health officials tracing many instances to armadillo exposure. As of July 23, the Florida Department of Health noted 17 cases statewide, with 81% in Central Florida. The highest occurrences were reported in Volusia, Brevard, Lake, Orange, and Seminole counties. In the previous year, Florida saw 36 cases, the most since reporting started in 1992. Of those, at least 26 were contracted in-state, one from another state, and two from abroad. The origins of the remaining seven are unknown.
Understanding Leprosy
Leprosy, or Hansen disease, is a chronic infection caused by the bacterium mycobacterium leprae. Symptoms can take up to 20 years to appear, including skin lesions, lumps, ulcers, and loss of eyebrows and eyelashes. The disease affects peripheral nerves, potentially leading to a loss of touch and pain sensation. The CDC indicates it is not highly contagious; infection requires prolonged close contact with an infected person’s saliva or mucus. However, around 95% of people have natural immunity. Annually, about 225 cases occur in the U.S., with most Americans contracting it during international travel. Globally, approximately 250,000 cases are reported each year.
Link to Armadillos
The increase in cases may relate to nine-banded armadillos, which carry mycobacterium leprae. These animals are common in Mexico, the southern U.S., and central and northern Florida. They are invasive pests, causing damage by burrowing and foraging. Contact with armadillos or contaminated soil around their habitats can expose a person to the bacteria.
Treating Leprosy
If caught early, leprosy is curable through multi-drug therapy involving antibiotic combinations. Treatment renders a patient non-infectious, with the CDC stating it may take one to two years depending on the leprosy type.
Preventive Measures
The CDC advises steps to minimize exposure risk to leprosy-causing bacteria:
- Avoid contact with armadillos
- Refrain from hunting or eating armadillos
- Use repellents or traps to reduce exposure risk
- Wear gloves and long sleeves when working in potentially contaminated soil
- Wash hands with soap and water after outdoor work
- If soap and water are unavailable, use alcohol-based sanitizer