What are the symptoms of the plague in California?

Symptoms include fever, cramps, and painful swelling of lymph nodes. If untreated, it can progress to pneumonic or septicemic plague.

How can I protect myself and my pets from the plague in California?

Take precautions when outdoors, especially in rodent-prone areas. Use flea control for pets and avoid their burrows.

Is the plague still a threat in the United States?

Yes, a handful of plague cases are reported in the U.S. each year, with the most recent case in California being a reminder.

Home / Health / California Confirms Plague Case: Are You at Risk?

California Confirms Plague Case: Are You at Risk?

19 Nov

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Summary

A California resident in South Lake Tahoe has a plague infection.
The plague bacterium, Yersinia pestis, is spread by infected fleas.
Early antibiotic treatment is effective if the plague is caught quickly.

California Confirms Plague Case: Are You at Risk?

A case of the plague has been confirmed in South Lake Tahoe, California, prompting health officials to urge residents to take precautions. The notorious disease, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis and typically spread by fleas from infected rodents, remains a threat despite its historical impact.

Experts emphasize the importance of protecting oneself and pets, particularly when outdoors in areas inhabited by wild rodents. Simple measures include being aware of warnings, securing food, avoiding rodent burrows, and using flea control for pets. These steps are vital given the increased risk from warmer conditions favoring vector populations.

Fortunately, the plague is treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed and treated promptly. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes after visiting at-risk areas like the Sierra Nevadas should seek immediate medical attention to ensure a positive outcome.