Leprosy, often thought of as “an Old Testament disease” that’s largely been eradicated, is in fact alive and well in the American Southeast, including Florida. It’s an extremely slow-developing disease that’s treatable.

In Florida, it’s believed to be spread by the nine-banded armadillo common throughout the state, but Health First Infectious Disease Specialist Elizabeth Borrero, MD says it’s also endemic to the soil.

It’s sometimes difficult to diagnose, but once spotted, “We have great medications for treatment,” the doctor says.

Because of this, it’s unlikely an American with access to care would “reach that stage that you recall in the Bible, right? The big lumps and deformities – nowadays, people are apt to seek medical attention” before that progression, she said.

Things to look out for include:

• Thick skin, painful swelling, discolorations or lesions, open sores or rashes
• Nerve damage resulting in numbness to the affected areas
• Paralysis, especially of the extremities
• Swollen lymph nodes that continue to grow.

“You must bring to your medical attention or your health care provider as soon as possible.”

For a complete list of signs and symptoms, and more information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, click HERE.

WATCH or LISTEN to the complete interview HERE.