It develops what are called granulomas on the nerves, in the respiratory tract, on the skin, and in the eyes. It is spread between people and can manifest from contact with nasal fluid, coughing, or passed from skin to skin. Armadillos carry leprosy and can transmit this disease in several ways.
Can armadillos spread leprosy to dogs?
They can carry the mycobacterium leprae known to cause leprosy. The armadillos can transmit the leprosy when they attack using their claws. Even if the armadillos do not bite, they are risky to your cat or dog because of the diseases they carry around.
You could be thinking “How does an armadillo give you leprosy?”
In the southern United States, some armadillos are naturally infected with the bacteria that cause Hansen’s disease in people and it may be possible that they can spread it to people. However, the risk is very low and most people who come into contact with armadillos are unlikely to get Hansen’s disease.
To date, around 150-200 Americans have leprosy. Eating the armadillo can cause leprosy, too. Many trappers are hunters are not shy about eating this animal, however, and based on the previous statistics I provided before, you can see why. In any case, keep yourself safe and try not to handle or eat armadillo.
Some armadillos, placental mammals with leathery armor, are naturally infected with leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Armadillos are one of the only known animals to carry leprosy, an age-old disease that causes skin and nerve damage.
How many diseases do armadillos carry?
Armadillos do carry diseases. In fact, one of the most common diseases that are often found in armadillos is leprosy. The link between human infection and armadillos has not yet been heavily tested, but it does still remain a risk. In Louisiana alone, 53% of armadillos were found to have leprosy.
While they can host parasitic worms and even rabies on rare occasions, most of the conversation surrounding armadillo diseases is about leprosy. Besides humans, nine-banded armadillos are the only animals that can carry M. Leprae, the bacteria that causes leprosy.
Are armadillos dangerous animals?
Well, Armadillos are not generally dangerous or aggressive but they are still wild animals. They can harm you with their strong claws If not properly handled. An average Armadillo will run away of it is threatened or they will withdraw their whole body into their carapace and seek protection.
Can you get any diseases from dogs?
This disease caused by viruses that penetrate the victim’s body through a wound or bite from an infected host. RMSF (Rocky Mountain spotted fever) The disease is transmitted by ticks which have been infected by the Rickettsia bacteria. These ticks are commonly found in dogs.