A resident of California has tested positive for the plague, raising concerns among local health authorities. The individual, based in South Lake Tahoe, is believed to have contracted the disease while camping, likely from an infected flea.
Health officials are urging California residents to exercise caution when engaging in outdoor activities, especially in areas where wild rodents are known to inhabit. Kyle Fliflet, the acting director of public health for El Dorado County, emphasized the importance of protecting oneself and pets while hiking, walking, or camping.
“The plague is naturally present in various regions of California, including the higher elevations of El Dorado County,” Fliflet stated. “It’s critical to be vigilant and take necessary precautions when outdoors.”
The plague is caused by bacteria typically found in rodent populations, having been introduced to the United States in the early 1900s by immigrants who traveled on ships that were infested with rats. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), while cases are relatively rare in the U.S., they do occur.
There are three main forms of the disease: bubonic, which affects the lymph nodes; septicemic, which impacts the bloodstream; and pneumonic, which affects the lungs. Bubonic plague is the most frequently reported type in the U.S., and symptoms can resemble those of the common cold, including fever and nausea, often taking up to two weeks to appear after infection.
On average, only about seven cases are reported nationwide each year, mainly concentrated in the western states, particularly New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. Infection typically occurs through flea bites from infected rodents or from direct contact with infected animals.
Fortunately, the plague today is not as deadly as it was in the past, particularly during the infamous Black Death in the 14th century. With modern medicine, it can be treated effectively with antibiotics. However, health officials continue to monitor cases closely.
In July, a resident in Arizona tragically died from the plague, marking the first fatality of the year. Health authorities linked this death to a die-off of prairie dogs in the area. Just weeks later, a domestic cat in Colorado also tested positive for the disease, further indicating that the bacteria remain a concern in certain regions.
The last significant epidemic of plague in the U.S. occurred in Los Angeles between 1924 and 1925. Since the year 2000, at least 15 fatalities have been recorded due to the disease, underscoring the importance of maintaining awareness about its presence in rural and semi-rural areas.
Residents are being encouraged to take simple precautions, such as using insect repellent, keeping food stored securely while camping, and avoiding contact with wild animals. These steps can significantly reduce the risk of contracting this rare but serious disease.
As Californians continue to enjoy the great outdoors, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared for potential threats, even from diseases thought to be relics of the past. By exercising caution and being aware of the risks, individuals can better protect themselves and their communities from the plague and other wildlife-related health issues.
