Florida health authorities are maintaining strict surveillance over the presence and increase of two infectious diseases that have recently raised alarms: dengue and leprosy (medically known as Hansen’s disease). Although their transmission routes and risk levels differ completely, both require community attention to prevent infections.
Below, we explain the current situation, infection hotspots, and what to do to protect yourself.
Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Becomes Endemic in Central Florida
Leprosy, a historically feared and long-considered ancient disease, has shown an unusual uptick in the central region of the state. Recent investigations indicate that the disease has become endemic in Florida, with a particular concentration of cases along the Interstate 4 corridor, covering counties such as Volusia, Brevard, Lake, Orange, and Seminole.
Recent data from the Florida Department of Health show 17 confirmed cases statewide recently, adding to the 23 reported throughout 2023.
How is it transmitted?
The primary driver of this local increase is the nine-banded armadillo, the only animal (besides humans) capable of harboring the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. Transmission can occur through:
- Direct contact: When handling armadillos.
- Contaminated soil: These animals spread the bacteria in the soil while digging. Gardeners and workers who inhale or handle soil without protection may become infected through microscopic amoebas that preserve the bacteria.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms may take years to appear and include skin patches with loss of sensation, numbness or weakness in hands and feet, and chronic skin lesions.
- Treatment: It is completely curable with a standard antibiotic regimen. Additionally, 95% of the human population is genetically immune to the bacteria.
Dengue: An Ongoing Challenge Spread by Mosquitoes
Meanwhile, dengue remains an active threat. Following a record 2024 in which Florida reported 1,044 cases (both locally acquired and travel-associated), the virus continues to be present. As of mid-2025 and continuing in reports, Miami-Dade County has been one of the main hotspots for local transmission, though outbreaks have also been recorded over time in counties such as Pasco, Polk, and Hillsborough.
How is it transmitted?
Through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, a species very common throughout Florida. It is not spread directly from person to person through casual contact.
Symptoms and Treatment
Approximately 1 in 4 infected people become ill. Symptoms last 2 to 7 days and include:
- Sudden high fever.
- Severe headache, pain behind the eyes.
- Joint and muscle pain.
- Mild rash.
- Treatment: There is no specific medication or vaccines available in the U.S. for those who do not live in officially endemic areas. Rest, plenty of fluids, and acetaminophen for fever are recommended (avoiding ibuprofen or aspirin to reduce the risk of bleeding).
How to Prevent and What to Do in These Cases
To prevent Dengue:
- Drain standing water: Check flower pots, tires, and any containers in your yard, as they are mosquito breeding grounds.
- Use repellent: Apply EPA-registered repellents, especially during dawn and dusk.
- Protect your home: Ensure that window and door screens are in good condition.
To prevent Leprosy:
- Avoid armadillos: Do not feed, touch, or attempt to trap them.
- Use protective gear: If working in gardening or moving soil, wear thick gloves and, if there is a lot of dust, consider using a mask.
- Consult a doctor: If you notice unusual skin patches that lose sensation to the touch, see a dermatologist immediately.
