Leprosy Cases Surge in Florida, CDC Issues Warning

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning as cases of leprosy surge in Florida, particularly in the central region of the state. A recent report suggests that this area may have become an "endemic location" for the infectious disease. The number of reported leprosy cases in the southeastern US has more than doubled over the past decade, with a growing number of cases being locally acquired. While leprosy cases nationally decreased from 2019 to 2020, the increase in central Florida is a cause for concern. The CDC advises considering leprosy as a potential diagnosis for individuals who have traveled to the area, even without other risk factors. Leprosy can lead to serious disabilities if left untreated, but it is curable with medication.