Health experts are raising concerns about a rise in Hansen's disease cases in Florida, with nine-banded armadillos emerging as a possible factor. The illness, historically associated with biblical-era accounts and once commonly called leprosy, has been studied for years in connection with these animals.
Nine-banded armadillos are widespread across the southern United States and are a familiar sight in neighborhoods, gardens and around homes. Their habit of digging in flower beds, burrowing under porches and roaming near people has made them a common part of daily life in many areas, including Florida.
Researchers have long paid attention to armadillos because they can carry the bacterium linked to Hansen's disease. That does not mean every armadillo poses a threat, but growing attention on Florida cases has renewed questions about how often human contact with the animals may play a role.
The renewed warning highlights an unusual public health issue: a disease many people think of as ancient is still present today. In Florida, the overlap between people and nine-banded armadillos is now drawing fresh scrutiny as experts work to better understand the source of the increase.
