Florida’s leprosy cases hit a statewide record, with Central Florida as a hotspot
TL;DR
Florida reported 36 Hansen’s disease (leprosy) cases in 2025—the most in the state’s modern records—mostly acquired in Florida, with 17 additional preliminary cases in 2026 by mid-July; Central Florida, particularly Brevard County, has historically higher counts. Leprosy is rare and not easily spread, and is curable with antibiotics, though exposure timing can be years apart; the numbers are preliminary and can change as investigations continue.
- Florida leprosy cases reached a record, see where cases are being reported WEAR-TV
- Florida leprosy cases reached a record. See where cases are being reported WPEC
- A 4,000-year-old disease is on the rise in this state thanks to armadillos usatoday.com
- A 4,000-year-old disease is on the rise in Florida. Scientists say armadillos may be to blame WBAL-TV
- Florida Is Seeing a Leprosy Surge, and Scientists Think These Creatures Are to Blame People.com
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