The plague makes a comeback in the USA: symptoms and prevention
Although many associate it with the , the plague still exists in specific regions of the world. In the United States, it is considered endemic in several western states, where it circulates among wild rodents and the insects that feed on them.
The last confirmed case was recorded in South Lake Tahoe, California, where a resident tested positive after returning from a camping trip. Health authorities suspect that the infection occurred due to the bite of an infected flea in the El Dorado area. The patient is receiving medical attention and is recovering favorably at home.
How the plague is transmitted today
The disease is caused by the Yersinia pestis bacterium, the same responsible for the in the 14th century. Today, however, the risk of contagion is much lower thanks to medical knowledge and the existence of effective antibiotics.
In California, the bacteria is mainly found in wild rodents such as squirrels and mice. The fleas that feed on these animals can transmit the infection to humans and pets. Both dogs and cats can carry infected fleas into homes, increasing human exposure.
Local authorities remind that El Dorado County has recorded several positive animals in recent years, although human cases are extremely rare: the last one there occurred in 2020.
Symptoms, warning signs, and prevention
Plague symptoms usually appear between two and fourteen days after exposure. The most common ones include:
- Sudden fever and chills.
- Nausea, headache, and weakness.
- Inflammation and pain in the lymph nodes, a characteristic sign of bubonic plague.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as the disease can evolve severely if left untreated. With antibiotics, most patients recover without complications.
California health authorities insist that, although the risk is low, it is advisable to take certain precautions when engaging in outdoor activities:
- Use insect repellents with DEET.
- Wear clothing that covers arms and legs in rural areas.
- Avoid contact with rodents, alive or dead.
- Do not allow pets to roam freely in areas where there are wild squirrels or mice.
Furthermore, they recommend staying alert to local warnings in parks and camping areas, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms appear after visiting a high-risk area.
[Source: ]
