Officials Confirm Case of Bubonic Plague in Central Oregon
Officials in central Oregon this week reported a case of bubonic plague in a resident who likely got the disease from a sick pet cat.
Health Concerns Minimized
The infected resident, the cat, and the resident’s close contacts have all been provided medication, public health officials say, and people in the community are not believed to be at risk.
Understanding the Plague
Plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is an infectious disease that can affect mammals. It is primarily carried by rodents and fleas. Plague can be treated with antibiotics, and early treatment increases the chances of a full recovery. There are different forms of plague, including:
Bubonic Plague
The bubonic plague occurs when the plague bacteria enters the lymph nodes. Symptoms of this form include fever, headache, weakness, and painful, swollen lymph nodes. It is commonly caused by the bite of an infected flea.
Septicemic Plague
The septicemic plague occurs when the bacteria enters the bloodstream. It can manifest initially or after bubonic plague goes untreated. Symptoms include fever, chills, weakness, abdominal pain, shock, and sometimes bleeding into the skin and blackened extremities. It can be transmitted through flea bites or handling infected animals.
Pneumonic Plague
The pneumonic plague is the most serious form and occurs when the bacteria is inhaled into the lungs. Symptoms include rapidly developing pneumonia in addition to fever and weakness. Unlike other forms, pneumonic plague can be spread from person to person through infectious droplets.
Preventing Plague Outbreaks
Despite its historical associations, plague outbreaks are not exclusive to the middle ages. In the United States, an average of seven cases of human plague is reported each year, with most of them being the bubonic form. Plague outbreaks are most common in rural western and southwestern US regions. Rural towns and villages in Africa, particularly Madagascar and Congo, also experience significant human plague cases.
Reducing the Risk
There are steps individuals can take to minimize the risk of plague:
1. Rodent Control
Reducing rodents in and around homes can be achieved through clearing brush and junk piles. Additionally, pet food should be kept inaccessible to rodents.
2. Protection against Fleas
Using flea control products can help prevent infections in household pets. When camping or working outdoors, individuals can protect themselves with repellent that contains DEET to prevent flea bites.
A Historically Significant Disease
While the bubonic plague remains a serious illness, treatment with antibiotics and supportive therapy has significantly improved outcomes. Even the most dangerous form, pneumonic plague, can be effectively managed when promptly treated.
