A recent case of plague has been confirmed in South Lake Tahoe, California, after an individual may have been bitten by an infected flea while camping. The announcement was made by El Dorado County’s public health division on Tuesday, stating that the affected person is currently under the care of medical professionals and recovering at home.
According to Kyle Fliflet, the acting director of public health for El Dorado County, “Plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including the higher elevation areas of El Dorado County.” This highlights the importance of taking necessary precautions while enjoying outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and camping, particularly in areas inhabited by wild rodents.
While specific details about the individual or their current condition have not been disclosed, health officials are actively investigating the situation to ensure public safety.
Plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which is primarily transmitted through the bites of fleas that have fed on infected animals, including squirrels and chipmunks. El Dorado County’s public health division cautions that pets, such as dogs and cats, can also introduce these infected fleas into homes. Consequently, individuals can contract the disease through flea bites.
Health officials advise that symptoms of plague typically manifest within two weeks following exposure to an infected animal or flea. Common symptoms include fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. Fortunately, plague can be effectively treated with antibiotics if detected early, making prompt action crucial for recovery.
The most prevalent form of plague is the bubonic plague, which frequently spreads among rodent populations such as prairie dogs and rats. There are also two other forms of this disease: septicemic plague, which spreads throughout the body, and pneumonic plague, which infects the lungs and is known for being the most deadly and easily transmitted.
Human cases of plague are rare, with an average of about seven cases reported annually across the United States, primarily in western states. The last recorded case in El Dorado County occurred in 2020, with the individual likely exposed in the South Lake Tahoe region. Additionally, two cases were reported in 2015 after exposure to infected rodents or fleas in Yosemite National Park, both of which were successfully treated.
In a concerning incident in July, a resident of northern Arizona succumbed to pneumonic plague, marking the first recorded death from this form of plague since 2007, as confirmed by local health officials.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most cases of plague occur in rural areas of northern New Mexico, northern Arizona, southern Colorado, California, southern Oregon, and far western Nevada. Globally, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Madagascar, and Peru report the highest incidences of this disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) noted that from 2010 to 2015, there were 3,248 human cases of plague worldwide, resulting in 584 deaths.
Interestingly, Canada has not reported any human cases of plague since 1939, although the Public Health Agency of Canada continues to monitor for this disease.
To prevent contracting plague, El Dorado County’s public health division recommends several precautions. These include:
Avoid feeding squirrels, chipmunks, or other wild rodents. Never touch sick, injured, or dead rodents. Keep pets away from rodent burrows and discourage them from playing with or picking up sick or dead rodents. Avoid camping, sleeping, or resting near animal burrows or areas with visible dead rodents. Wear long pants tucked into boot tops and apply insect repellent containing DEET on socks and pant cuffs to minimize flea exposure.By following these guidelines, outdoor enthusiasts can significantly reduce their risk of exposure to plague while enjoying the beauty of nature.
