Leprosy remains rare in the U.S. But Florida, which often reports the most cases of any state, has seen an uptick in patients. ⁠
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The epicenter is east of Orlando. ⁠
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Brevard County reported a staggering 13% of the nation’s 159 leprosy cases in 2020, according to a Times analysis of state and federal data.⁠
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Many questions about the phenomenon remain unanswered. But leprosy experts believe armadillos play a role in spreading the illness to people.⁠
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Scientists are trying to solve the medical mystery. ⁠
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“If we better understand it,” UF veterinarian Juan Campos Krauer said, “the better we can learn to live with it and reduce the risk.”⁠
Read more: www.tampabay.com/news/health/...
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