Rare case of the Bubonic Plague reported in Oregon
A rare case of the bubonic plague, a disease that, per online reports, killed 50 million people in the Middle Ages, has been reported in Oregon.
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A New Mexico man has died after contracting the bubonic plague, the state’s health department said in a news release last Friday.
It is the first human case of plague in New Mexico since 2021 and the first death since 2020, according to the New Mexico Department of Health.
The man’s name was not released to the media, but the department of health says the man resided in Lincoln County and that NMDOH staff is conducting outreach to area residents. The department of health also said an “environmental assessment” will also be conducted in the community to look for ongoing risk.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to the family of the Lincoln County man who succumbed to plague,” said State Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps, DVM, MPH, in the news release. “This tragic incident serves as a clear reminder of the threat posed by this ancient disease and emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures to prevent its spread.”
The death comes about a month after a case of human bubonic plague was confirmed in Oregon and raised fears over the infamous disease. In Oregon, authorities confirmed the infected person caught the plague from their house cat.
The infected person was diagnosed and treated early on, “posing little risk to the community,” according to officials in Deschutes County, Oregon, the county in which the infected person lives.
Bubonic plague in Oregon: A person in Oregon caught bubonic plague from their cat. Why experts say not to worry.
What is the bubonic plague?
According to the New Mexico Department of Health, plague is a bacterial disease of rodents and is generally spread to humans through the bites of infected fleas.
It can also spread by direct contact with infected animals, including rodents, wildlife and pets.
Symptoms of plague in humans
The New Mexico Department of Health says symptoms of plague in humans include sudden onset of fever, chills, headache and weakness. In most cases, there is a painful swelling of the lymph node in the groin, armpit or neck areas.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, without prompt treatment the disease can cause serious illness or death.
The CDC also said human plague infections continue to occur in rural areas in the western United States, but significantly more cases occur in parts of Africa and Asia.
Symptoms of plague in pets
Plague symptoms in cats and dogs include fever, lethargy and loss of appetite, according to the New Mexico Department of Health. There may also be a swelling in the lymph node under the jaw.
Contributing: Cybele Mayes-Osterman & Jessica Onsurez, USA TODAY Network
Dr. Debi Johnson is a medical expert and health journalist dedicated to promoting well-being. With a background in medicine, she offers evidence-based insights into health trends and wellness practices. Beyond her reporting, Dr. Debi enjoys hiking, yoga, and empowering others to lead healthier lives.
