Meet the little ally in a big fight against Leprosy
Our unexpected helper in the battle against one of the world’s oldest diseases
Did you know that the armadillo is one the few animals that can contract leprosy and pass it to humans?
As leprosy affects humans the same way, observing the disease in armadillos has paved the way for breakthroughs in our understanding of it – and how we treat it.
For its role in the fight against this awful disease, we see the armadillo as a symbol – of hope, of protection, and of a future without leprosy. It might only be small, but it’s had a big impact on the lives of people across the world still being affected by leprosy.
Wait, leprosy still exists?
Yes, it still exists – but it’s easily treatable when caught early! With help, it could be completely eliminated in your lifetime. Here are the facts:
Leprosy is still a problem for remote areas in Asia, Africa, and South America
Left untreated, leprosy can cause progressive and permanent disabilities
Leprosy is entirely treatable with Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT)
Leprosy has been found in 4000+ year old skeletons, making it one of the oldest known diseases in the world
So yes, leprosy still exists – but so does hope. And sometimes, that hope shows up in the most unexpected form: a little ally with a tough shell and a powerful purpose.
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