Leprosy predates Europeans in the Americas

A new study reveals leprosy existed in the Americas for at least 1,000 years before European arrival, challenging the long-held belief it was introduced by colonizers. This finding transforms the understanding of the disease's history. Researchers analyzed ancient DNA, discovering the leprosy-causing bacteria *Mycobacterium lepromatosis* was widespread in North and South America centuries before European contact. The study examined nearly 800 samples, including ancient human remains. The research also suggests the pathogen spread rapidly across the continent and that strains found in red squirrels in the UK originated in the Americas. The study highlights the importance of ancient DNA in understanding disease history.