Leprosy, an ancient disease known for causing disfiguring skin patches and nerve damage, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in Florida, according to infectious disease experts. The condition, also called Hansen's Disease, is historically associated with shame and uncleanliness but is now understood to be treatable with antibiotics if caught early.
While leprosy is rare in the United States, affecting approximately 100 to 200 Americans annually, Florida has seen a notable increase in cases. Last year, the state reported a record high of 36 cases, with at least 26 acquired within Florida—the highest number of locally acquired cases in any U.S. state over the past decade. As of early this month, Florida has reported 19 cases in 2026. Experts observe a general rise in numbers over the last 20 years.
Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease physician at the University of Florida College of Medicine, stated that leprosy in Florida is an ongoing, emerging infectious disease. He emphasized that it is curable and that early identification leads to better patient outcomes. The current focus for health professionals is to raise awareness and demystify the disease within the state.
Potential Sources of Transmission
Experts believe the increase in Florida is linked to the nine-banded armadillo, a common inhabitant of the state that can carry the bacteria causing leprosy. Contaminated soil, particularly near armadillo burrows, is also considered a potential source of infection. Individuals who have acquired leprosy in Florida have reported exposure to either contaminated soil or direct contact with armadillos, including handling or consuming them.
Leprosy is caused by the slow-growing bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. Globally, about 200,000 people contract leprosy each year, primarily in developing regions. While once thought to be highly contagious between humans, modern understanding indicates that transmission requires close, prolonged contact with an infected person's saliva or mucus. It is estimated that only about five percent of people exposed to the bacteria develop the disease, and symptoms can take up to 20 years to manifest after initial contact.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Patients with leprosy typically develop discolored or lighter bumps on the skin, painless ulcers, and thickened, dry skin. Over time, affected skin areas can become numb as the bacteria damage peripheral nerves. A combination of abnormal skin lesions and decreased sensation at the site often prompts investigation for leprosy. Diagnosis requires a skin biopsy with specific dyes. The rarity of the disease and the specific diagnostic requirements can sometimes lead to delayed diagnoses.
Treatment and Prevention
Once diagnosed, leprosy is treatable with antibiotics such as dapsone, rifampin, and clofazimine. Treatment usually involves a combination of three antibiotics taken monthly for one to two years, along with ongoing monitoring for complications like nerve damage. The disease is considered curable with appropriate medical intervention.
To prevent contracting leprosy, health officials advise avoiding contact with nine-banded armadillos, including touching, hunting, or eating them. Residents are also cautioned to avoid touching soil around armadillo burrows, especially if they have open wounds. While experts aim to raise awareness, they also stress the importance of not causing undue alarm, focusing instead on understanding transmission patterns and identifying at-risk populations.