There are more cases of Hansen’s disease reported in Brazil than any other nation besides India. Even though the disease is highly prevalent, scientists are developing new studies to map out its occurrence with greater precision.

A study carried out by Brazilian researchers and published in May revealed a strong association in Brazil between direct contact with armadillos and a high risk of contracting Hansen’s disease.

by Adele Santelli
https://news.mongabay.com/2025/10/research-aims-to-link-hansens-disease-illegal-armadillo-hunting-in-brazil/

#news #zoonoticdiseases

Research aims to link Hansen’s disease & illegal armadillo hunting in Brazil

Hansen’s disease (also known as leprosy) has afflicted humans for thousands of years — it has been cited throughout history, even in passages of the Bible. Yet science has still not determined whether it originated in Asia or in Africa. But Hansen’s disease’s modern name has a very traceable history. In 1873, Norwegian physician Gerhard […]

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