Florida reports two additional leprosy cases, bringing state total to 19

The Florida Department of Health confirmed two new cases of Hansen's disease in Brevard County, increasing the county's 2025 total to three and the state's tally to 19 as of Aug. 1. The patients are reported to be between 70-74 and 80-84 years old, though no further personal details were released.

Florida has recorded 36 cases of the disease in 2025, up from 20 in 2024, representing just over 20% of the 174 cases reported nationwide. Cases have been documented in multiple counties, including Charlotte, Duval, Lee and Miami-Dade, among others. One case was acquired outside Florida and three were contracted outside the United States; the source of six cases remains unknown.

Public health officials note that Hansen's disease, caused by a bacterial infection, is rare in the United States and spreads only through prolonged exposure. The nine-banded armadillo, which inhabits Florida, is the only known animal reservoir besides humans.

"If left untreated, leprosy can lead to nerve damage, paralysis of the hands and feet, chronic ulcers, blindness and disfigurement," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned.

The disease is treatable with a multi-drug antibiotic regimen lasting one to two years. Health officials advise anyone experiencing persistent skin patches, loss of sensation or muscle weakness to seek medical evaluation and mention the possibility of Hansen's disease, especially if they have had close contact with a diagnosed individual or have traveled to regions where the disease is more common.