Brevard County added two new leprosy cases in July, according to the Florida Department of Health. The county now has three confirmed cases this year, with Florida’s statewide total at 19 as of August 1. This follows a trend where Florida accounted for over 20% of U.S. leprosy diagnoses last year, with 36 cases reported in 2025 compared to 20 in 2024. Health officials have not released details about the latest patients, but data shows one is between 70 and 74 years old and the other between 80 and 84.
The increase has sparked questions among residents about risk factors and prevention. Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae and is spread through prolonged contact with untreated cases. Symptoms include skin lesions, numbness, and muscle weakness. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics can prevent disability.
Florida has become a focal point for leprosy in recent years, with Brevard County joining other warm states like Louisiana and Texas in reporting higher numbers. As of August 1, 19 cases were reported statewide, with Brevard, Charlotte, Duval, Highlands, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Okeechobee, Orange, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Volusia counties each reporting at least one case. One case was acquired outside Florida, and three were acquired outside the U.S.
Researchers suspect the nine-banded armadillo, a common Florida resident, may play a role in spreading the bacteria, though the exact source remains unclear. The Florida Department of Health continues to monitor the situation and advises residents to seek medical attention if they notice symptoms. Six of the 19 cases statewide have unknown origins, highlighting gaps in understanding the disease’s transmission in the state.