Armadillos are unique mammals found in various regions, and like many wild animals, they can carry pathogens that may affect humans. Understanding the specific diseases associated with these animals is important for public health awareness. While direct interaction with armadillos is generally not recommended, most associated diseases are rare in humans.
Leprosy and Armadillos
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious condition caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Armadillos, particularly the nine-banded species, are the only animals other than humans known to naturally harbor this bacterium and can serve as a reservoir for it. The relatively lower internal body temperature of armadillos, ranging from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius, provides an optimal environment for M. leprae to thrive and disseminate throughout their tissues. This physiological characteristic makes them uniquely susceptible to the infection.
While armadillos can carry the leprosy bacterium, human transmission from these animals is uncommon. Although possible, contracting leprosy from an armadillo often involves direct contact, such as handling the animal or consuming its meat. Researchers believe armadillos acquired M. leprae from humans centuries ago, and a significant portion of armadillo populations in certain areas, particularly the southern United States, carry the bacterium.
Other Diseases Carried by Armadillos
Beyond leprosy, armadillos can carry other pathogens, although human infections linked to them are less frequent.
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis, a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella bacteria, can be carried in an armadillo’s intestines. This infection can lead to gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. The bacteria are often linked to contaminated food or water, and contact with armadillo feces or their environment can pose a risk.
Chagas Disease
Armadillos may also serve as reservoirs for Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for Chagas disease. Transmission to humans primarily occurs through the bite of infected “kissing bugs” (triatomine bugs), which become infected after feeding on infected animals. The parasite is present in the bug’s feces, which can enter the human body.
Rabies
Rabies, a viral disease, can technically be carried by armadillos, but cases of them having or transmitting rabies are exceedingly rare.
Transmission Routes
Pathogens can transfer from armadillos to humans through several general mechanisms.
Direct Contact
Direct contact with an infected armadillo, such as touching, handling, or being scratched or bitten, can potentially lead to transmission of bacteria like M. leprae. Contact with an armadillo’s bodily fluids, including blood, tissue, or saliva, also presents a potential route for infection.
Indirect Contact
Indirect contact is another way pathogens can spread, particularly through fecal-oral transmission. If armadillo feces contaminate soil, water, or surfaces, bacteria like Salmonella can be transferred to humans who then touch their mouths or consume contaminated items. This is why thorough hygiene is important in areas where armadillos are present.
Vector-Borne Transmission
Vector-borne transmission involves insects, such as kissing bugs, that can pick up parasites like Trypanosoma cruzi from armadillos. The infected bug then transmits the parasite to humans through its bite.
Preventing Transmission
Minimizing disease transmission from armadillos involves several precautions.
Avoid direct interaction with wild armadillos, including touching, feeding, or attempting to approach them. Even if an armadillo appears injured or deceased, direct contact should be avoided.
Pet owners should ensure their animals do not interact with armadillos or their droppings.
Maintain good hygiene by thoroughly washing hands with soap and water after any potential contact with armadillos, their habitats, or soil where they might have been active.
When gardening or working in areas where armadillos are known to be present, wear sturdy gloves.
If nuisance armadillos are on your property, contacting local animal control or a wildlife removal service is recommended instead of personal removal.