Florida Records Two New Hansen's Disease Cases

The state's total count for 2026 has reached 25 infections following reports in Orange and Polk counties.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Diseases — General

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a stylized armadillo silhouette in a sandy, pine-needled Florida forest floor, representing health transmission research. — Florida health authorities identified two new cases of Hansen's disease in Orange and Polk counties, bringing the state's 2026 total to 25. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Does the rise in local Hansen's disease cases concern you regarding your community's public health?

Florida health authorities reported two additional cases of Hansen's disease over the past two weeks. One of the new infections occurred in Orange County, while the second was identified in Polk County.

Why it matters

While state case counts are closely monitored, health officials note that the vast majority of the population is naturally immune to the bacteria. Understanding transmission through contact with soil or nine-banded armadillos remains central to local prevention efforts.

Florida has recorded 25 cases of Hansen's disease so far in 2026, compared to 36 cases reported in the state in 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 95% of the population is naturally immune to the bacteria.

The players

Florida Department of Health

This is the state agency responsible for public health oversight, disease surveillance, and the management of health data for Florida residents.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

This is the national public health agency that provides guidance and research regarding infectious disease immunity and transmission patterns.

The details

The disease is transmitted through prolonged close contact with an infected person or by exposure to contaminated environmental factors like soil or nine-banded armadillos. Once contracted, the illness is treatable with antibiotics taken over one to two years, though symptoms may take up to 20 years to manifest.

Florida averaged six annual cases from 1992 to 2014.
State cases spiked to 29 in 2015.
Florida set a modern record with 36 cases in 2025.
Data for reported county-level cases was cut off on Oct 3, 2026.
The Florida Department of Health released the latest health data on Oct 15, 2026.

Health Landscape

The current state reporting aligns with an upward trend in local cases that first became evident during the 2015 Florida leprosy spike. This activity follows a record-setting 2025 where Florida saw 36 total cases, marking a significant departure from historical averages.

Residents should be aware that Hansen's disease remains treatable with a multi-year antibiotic regimen if diagnosed promptly. While the risk of transmission is low for most people due to natural immunity, avoiding direct contact with nine-banded armadillos is a common preventive measure.

The takeaway

Although current case counts have drawn attention, public health officials emphasize that the condition is not highly contagious for the general population. Residents should contact a healthcare provider if they suspect exposure or notice long-term skin symptoms.