What is leprosy? Here's how many cases there are in Florida

Leprosy is in the news again due to reported cases in Central Florida—but how common is this disease and how is it spread? Here’s what to know. What is leprosy? Hansen’s disease, commonly known as leprosy, is caused by a slow-growing bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It effects the nerves, skin, eyes, and lining of the nose, and “in some cases, b...