Armadillos can carry several dangerous diseases, including leprosy, parasitic worms, and rabies. However, most of the conversation surrounding armadillo diseases is about leprosy. Nine-banded armadillos are the only animals that can carry M. leprae, the bacteria that causes leprosy. Several human cases of the disease linked with the pests have been reported in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. While the risk of getting Hansen’s disease for any adult around the world is very low, people who come into contact with armadillos are at risk of getting the disease. The risk is very low, but it is still important to avoid contact with armadillos whenever possible. If you had contact with an armadillo and are worried about getting Hansen’s disease, talk to your healthcare provider. Your doctor will follow up with you over time and perform periodic skin examinations to see if you develop the disease. In addition, armadillos have been shown to transmit M. leprae to people in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida, where humans come into contact with the animals. People who eat armadillo meat frequently are at a higher risk of getting leprosy. Therefore, it is important to take precautions when cleaning the carcass and to cook the meat until it is well done.