Florida records record leprosy cases in 2025, adds 2026 cases

WEAR-TV • 02 Aug 22:14

The Florida Department of Health documented 36 Hansen's disease cases in 2025, the most on record, and 17 cases so far in 2026, with most infections occurring in central counties.

WPEC • 02 Aug 15:33

The Florida Department of Health logged 36 cases of Hansen’s disease in 2025, the most since records began, and 17 more cases through mid-July 2026, with most infections concentrated in central counties.

Gizmodo • 31 Jul 11:30

The Florida Health Department recorded 36 confirmed leprosy cases in 2025, with most infections acquired domestically and some associated with nine-banded armadillos.

WYFF • 30 Jul 19:04

Florida reported 17 leprosy cases in 2026, up from 20 in 2024, and health officials suggest contact with nine-banded armadillos may explain some infections.

Yahoo • 29 Jul 21:50

Florida reported 17 leprosy cases in 2025, including 27 locally acquired infections, prompting health officials to investigate the role of armadillos and environmental exposure.

USA Today • 29 Jul 21:50

Florida reported 36 leprosy cases in 2025, including 27 locally acquired infections, prompting health officials to investigate the role of armadillos in the disease's resurgence.

New York Post • 28 Jul 15:21

Health officials note an increase in Hansen's disease cases in Florida, linking the rise to contact with nine-banded armadillos that can carry the bacteria in soil.

WKMG • 24 Jul 17:24

State health data show an increase in Hansen's disease cases in Florida during 2025 and 2026, with most infections acquired locally and research pointing to armadillos as a possible source.

WESH • 24 Jul 01:38

The Florida Department of Health reported 17 leprosy cases statewide in 2026, with a slight rise in Central Florida counties.