Health officials in Colorado are currently investigating a suspected case of bubonic plague in a human, according to recent reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC reports that the United States typically sees about seven human cases of plague each year, with most occurring in rural regions of northern New Mexico, northern Arizona, southern Colorado, California, southern Oregon, and far western Nevada.
Globally, the plague is most commonly found in endemic areas such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Madagascar, and Peru. The disease, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, can be transmitted to humans through bites from infected fleas or through direct contact with infected animals. Early symptoms include sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, and swollen lymph nodes. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial to prevent serious complications.
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In February, Oregon officials reported a case in a person likely infected by their sick cat, highlighting the importance of awareness and precautions in affected areas.
What is Plague
Plague, also known as the Black Death historically, is a severe infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. It primarily affects rodents but can be transmitted to humans through the bite of infected fleas or through direct contact with infected animals. There are three main forms of plague that affect humans:
- Bubonic Plague: This is the most common form and is characterized by sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, and painful, swollen lymph nodes (called buboes). Bubonic plague is usually spread through flea bites or handling of infected animals.
- Pneumonic Plague: This form affects the lungs and can be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets. It is less common but more serious than bubonic plague because it can spread rapidly from person to person, causing severe pneumonia.
- Septicemic Plague: This occurs when the bacteria multiply in the bloodstream. It can arise from untreated bubonic or pneumonic plague and is often fatal if not promptly treated.
Plague has caused several major pandemics throughout history, most notably the Black Death in the 14th century, which killed millions of people in Europe and Asia. Today, plague is relatively rare but still exists in certain regions, particularly in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial to prevent serious complications and reduce mortality rates associated with the disease.
