Leprosy also known as Hansen's Disease brings biblical times to mind. And, it is on the rise in Florida, with three reported cases in Volusia County within five months and one in Brevard County.
Statewide there are four reported cases in five months, and in 2014 eight cases were reported in Brevard County contributing to the counties 18 new cases in the past five years.
The disease may be contracted though contact with Armadillo's, however, not the ones typically found in Florida.
Joseph Pecoraro, M.D., of Hearts Afire said, "With the increase in worldwide travel, the likelihood of more people bringing it back is probably the likely source of these people having been contaminated with it." He explained why we don't know when the people in Florida contracted the disease. "The incubation period for Leprosy is very long, it can be as little as nine months, or as long as twenty years."
The disease is treated with antibiotics, and concerns about antibiotic resistance says Dr.Pecoraro, are the same as with tuberculosis, because it's the same family of bacteria.
"And because it takes a long time for the bacteria to grow," Added Dr. Pecoraro, "it's harder to treat and so, it's not so much a concern about resistance as it is about people getting complete treatment."
"The important thing to know about leprosy." said Epidemiologist, Michael Drennon, of the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County "Is the vast majority of people have a natural immunity of about ninety five percent, so the chances of contracting the disease are slim."
