Leprosy could become endemic to Central Florida, researchers say. Here's what to know
People who catch the disease can easily be cured with antibiotics, the CDC says.
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People who catch the disease can easily be cured with antibiotics, the CDC says.
Cases of leprosy are surging in central Florida, according to a recent research letter shared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The authors said that the Sunshine State has "witnessed an increased incidence of leprosy cases lacking traditional risk factors," with trends contributing to "rising evidence that leprosy has become endemic in the
Leprosy, an ancient disease thought to be history, may now be endemic in Florida, health officials warn.
A new research paper, published in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal, found that reported cases of leprosy doubled in the Southeastern United States over the last 10 years, according to NBC News.
Leprosy can be cured using antibiotics, but if left untreated, can lead to paralysis in the hands and face, and even blindness.