Plague Case Reported in South Lake Tahoe
A person has tested positive for the plague, likely after a flea bite while camping in South Lake Tahoe, as stated by public health officials.
On Tuesday, the public health division of El Dorado County announced this case, revealing that the individual is currently resting at home under medical care.
“Plague is naturally found in various regions of California, particularly in the higher altitudes of El Dorado County,” said Kyle Fliflet, acting director of public health in the county. “It’s essential for people to take precautions for themselves and their pets when enjoying the outdoors—like hiking or camping—especially in areas where wild rodents are nearby.”
Details about the individual or their health status remain limited, but health authorities are investigating the situation.
The plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is typically spread via flea bites, which can contract the bacteria from infected wild rodents such as squirrels and chipmunks. El Dorado County officials also point out that pets can inadvertently bring fleas infected with the plague into homes. Avoiding contact with wild rodents and keeping pets away from burrows are key prevention methods.
Symptoms of the plague usually appear within two weeks after exposure and can include fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. Prompt medical treatment with antibiotics can effectively address the disease.
The bubonic plague is the most recognized form of this infection and is spread among rodents, including prairie dogs and rats. There are other forms of the plague: septicemic, which affects the entire body, and pneumonic, which infects the lungs and is the most lethal and contagious variant.
Human cases of the plague are quite rare in the U.S., averaging about seven reports annually, mainly in western states. The last recorded case in El Dorado County occurred in 2020, and that individual had likely been exposed in the South Lake Tahoe area. Prior to that, two cases were reported in Yosemite National Park in 2015, both of which involved exposure to infected rodents or fleas and ended in recovery.
Recently, a resident in northern Arizona died from pneumonic plague, marking the first recorded fatality from this form since 2007, although specific details about the victim have not been disclosed.
Health officials emphasize the importance of not feeding wild rodents and advise against touching sick, injured, or dead animals. Camping or resting near animal burrows, especially where deceased rodents are found, is not recommended. Wearing long pants tucked into boots and using insect repellent with DEET on exposed skin can also help minimize exposure to fleas.
