Transmission of the leprosy bacilli
Summary of Research
Using a One Health framework, the One Health Microbial Lab investigates the transmission pathways of leprosy bacilli across human and non-human hosts, as well as the persistence of Mycobacterium leprae and M. lepromatosis in environmental reservoirs. By integrating molecular detection, genomic data, and ecological sampling, we examine how transmission occurs at the human–animal–environment interface. In parallel, we assess biological, ecological, and social factors that contribute to infection risk, aiming to explain why transmission is sustained in some settings but not others. This integrative approach provides a mechanistic understanding of leprosy transmission and informs targeted strategies for disease control and prevention.