Scientists can’t explain the source of a wave of leprosy that is cropping up in the southeastern US.
A recent article in The Conversation reported a surge in cases of leprosy in the US. In an interview with Robert A. Schwartz, professor and head of dermatology at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, it was reported that leprosy, also known as Hansen’s Disease, is beginning to occur regularly within parts of the southeastern United States, most notably in Florida.
Caused by a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae, the disease affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. Leprosy is curable and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability. Apart from the physical deformity, persons affected by leprosy also face stigmatization and discrimination.
“CDC has not issued a travel advisory for Florida, or any other state, due to Hansen’s disease (leprosy),” it stated. “Most people with Hansen’s disease in the U.S. became infected in a country where it is more common. In the past, leprosy was feared as a highly contagious, devastating disease, but now we know that it’s hard to spread and it’s easily treatable.”
To become infected with leprosy, one needs “close contact” with someone with the untreated disease “over many months,” per the CDC. “You cannot get leprosy through casual contact such as shaking hands, sitting next to, or talking to someone who has the disease,” it added, noting that “around 95% of all people cannot become sick, because they are naturally immune.”
The reduction in the number of new cases has been gradual which is why the sudden surge in the US is so troubling. The disease has been associated with contact with armadillos who carry the bacteria, making it more common in the South; however, the more recent outbreaks have not been associated with animal exposure.
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