Health authorities are concerned after confirming a third human case of bubonic plague in the United States, this time in Pueblo County, Colorado.
- Health authorities are concerned after confirming a third human case of bubonic plague in the United States, this time in Pueblo County, Colorado.
- Treatment for bubonic plague is effective with antibiotics if administered quickly. However, the disease can be fatal if left untreated, especially if the bacteria infect the lungs (pneumonic plague) or the bloodstream.
- Case details:
- Information about bubonic plague:
- Recommendations to prevent bubonic plague:
- Additional resources:
Bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is historically known for devastating outbreaks, such as the “Black Death,” which caused millions of deaths in Europe.
Today, the disease is endemic in several regions of the western United States, including areas of Colorado, Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oregon. While the most common form of transmission is through infected fleas that live on rodents such as rats or prairie dogs, it can also spread through direct contact with infected animals.
Treatment for bubonic plague is effective with antibiotics if administered quickly. However, the disease can be fatal if left untreated, especially if the bacteria infect the lungs (pneumonic plague) or the bloodstream.
Recommended preventive measures include avoiding contact with rodents and their fleas, as well as closely monitoring pets to reduce the risk of exposure. Symptoms of bubonic plague include sudden fever, chills, severe headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and the characteristic swelling of lymph nodes (buboes).
Despite the low annual incidence in the United States, recent cases underscore the importance of vigilance and prompt medical attention if the disease is suspected.
Case details:
- Date of diagnosis: July 9, 2024
- Location: Pueblo County, Colorado
- Patient status: Hospitalized, but condition has improved.
- Mode of transmission: Unknown
Information about bubonic plague:
- Bacteria: Yersinia pestis
- Transmission: Primarily through the bite of an infected flea, but also through direct contact with infected animals or inhalation of their respiratory fluids.
- Symptoms: Sudden fever, chills, severe headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the lymph nodes (buboes).
- Treatment: Antibiotics, if administered promptly.
- Mortality: Can be fatal without treatment.
Recommendations to prevent bubonic plague:
- Avoid contact with wild rodents, especially squirrels, rats, and prairie dogs.
- Do not allow pets to hunt rodents or live near them.
- Use insect repellent and protective clothing when outdoors in areas with rodents.
- Control fleas on pets with products recommended by a veterinarian.
- Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of bubonic plague.
Additional resources:
Image: EFE
