Leprosy cases are on the rise in Florida and officials say most of the cases appear to be connected to armadillos.

The Florida Department of Health says that 9 cases have been confirmed so far this year, almost matching the state’s yearly average of 10 cases.

The head of the Duval County Medical Society told WKMG-TV that all of the cases could be tracked back to contact with armadillos.

“It is a devastating illness if you do get it,” said Dr. Sunil Joshi said.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that armadillos are the only animal that carries leprosy and that they can spread it through their saliva.

“We catch more armadillos than we do any other species,” said wildlife trapper Kyle Waltz to CBS Jacksonville.  “Especially if they’re trying to get out of a cage they can spit on you.”

“What’s happening in Florida is not necessarily concerning but what’s interesting is those cases were all with people who were in direct contact with armadillos,” Joshi said.

Florida has a large armadillo population although most of them live in the woods.  However, residents have found the animals living in their yards where they pose a danger to animals and children.

One reporter for CBS Jacksonville found six armadillos living under her home.

“It is still very, very unlikely to cause problems but be aware of armadillos and stay away from them,” Joshi said.

While armadillos are mostly nocturnal, it is currently their mating season and they can be out during the day, complicating the situation.