Health officials in California are advising residents to be cautious after a case of a well-known disease has been confirmed.
What’s happening?
A resident in South Lake Tahoe has reportedly contracted the plague, suspected to be from a flea bite.
Yes, the infamous plague—the very disease that decimated a large portion of Europe in the 14th century—has not been completely eliminated. It arises from the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which transmits to animals through fleas. In the U.S., a few cases are documented annually.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that this disease made its way to the U.S. in the early 1900s, likely via an infected rodent on a steamship. Interestingly, there hasn’t been an urban instance reported for over a hundred years, though there was a close call in San Diego in 1945 when World War II ended before a planned biological attack could proceed.
The most prevalent form is the bubonic plague, marked by symptoms like fever, cramps, and swollen lymph nodes. If it goes untreated, it can lead to more serious infections, like pneumonic or septicemic plague, which often results in death.
“It’s crucial for people to take precautions for themselves and their pets, especially in outdoor situations like walking, hiking, or camping in areas known for wild rodents,” stated Kyle Fliflet, the acting director of public health in El Dorado County.
Why is this plague case concerning?
The plague is classified as a vector-borne disease, meaning it spreads through bites from infected vectors such as fleas and mosquitoes. Rising global temperatures, fueled by human activity, create favorable conditions for such diseases.
A warmer climate promotes longer breeding seasons for these vectors and expands their habitats. For instance, there’s been a significant rise in dengue fever cases, carried by mosquitoes, across Europe and North America.
What’s being done about the plague?
Fortunately, if caught early, doctors are quite skilled at treating the plague. A course of antibiotics can effectively cure the infection, so recognizing the warning signs is vital. If you’ve been hiking or camping in at-risk areas like the Sierra Nevadas and develop fever or painful lymph nodes, seeking medical help immediately is essential.
The California Department of Public Health also advises taking sensible precautions—such as paying attention to warnings, securely storing food, avoiding burrows, and treating pets with flea control products.
