Hansen’s disease, also known as leprosy, is caused by the slow-growing bacteria Mycobacterium leprae (and rarely M. lepromatosis). It primarily affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes, and most people (about 95%) have natural immunity according to the Florida Department of Health (FDOH). Transmission usually requires prolonged close contact with an untreated infected person, and research suggests infected nine-banded armadillos may be an uncommon source.
Diagnosis is confirmed through a skin biopsy examined under a microscope. Effective antibiotic treatment is available, and patients are no longer infectious shortly after starting treatment. Wearing gloves when working with soil is a simple precaution to reduce risk from potential environmental exposure.
Florida’s Hansen’s disease surveillance data show the disease remains rare. The most recent ten-year county counts (2015–2024) list Okeechobee County with one case in 2021 and a preliminary 2026 case reported in July 2026.
Other counties with cases this year include Brevard, Charlotte, Duval, Highlands, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Orange, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, and Volusia.
According to FDOH recirds, in 2025, Florida reported 36 cases, the highest in the state’s modern records. The previous high was 29 cases in 2015.
Of these:
27 acquired infection in Florida.
1 acquired infection elsewhere in the U.S.
3 acquired infections outside the country.
The source of infection was unknown in 5 cases.
2021: 1 confirmed case.
2026: 1 preliminary case reported (as of mid-July 2026).
Because symptoms can appear years or decades after exposure, the recorded county does not always indicate where or when infection occurred.
Prevention: Avoid prolonged close contact with untreated infected individuals. Use gloves when handling soil.
Early detection: Seek medical evaluation if you have skin changes, nerve damage, or prolonged exposure to an infected person.
Treatment: Prompt antibiotic therapy is effective and stops transmission.
For the latest case data and updates, visit the Florida Health CHARTS Hansen’s Disease page at www.flhealthcharts.gov+1 or contact the Florida Department of Health’s Disease Control unit at 850‑245‑4444 or diseasecontrol@flhealth.gov.
