# Environmental Exposures Relative to Locally Acquired Hansen Disease, United States

## TL;DR

This study explores how contact with nine-banded armadillos may contribute to the spread of Hansen disease in the United States.

## Contribution

The study provides evidence linking outdoor activities and armadillo contact to Hansen disease exposure.

## Key findings

- Frequent outdoor activities were associated with higher risk of Hansen disease.
- Contact with nine-banded armadillos was identified as a likely source of exposure.
- The study was conducted using a telephone survey and chart review in a Georgia clinic.

## Abstract

Nine-banded armadillos (Dasypus novemcinctus) are suspected transmission sources of Hansen disease in North America. We conducted a telephone survey and chart review of patients with Hansen disease seen at a Georgia, USA, clinic during 1997–2022. Findings suggest frequent outdoor activities and armadillo contact were likely sources of exposure.