Human Plague Case Reported in Colorado: What You Need to Know
In a concerning health update, a human case of the plague has been confirmed in Colorado, marking a rare occurrence of this ancient disease in the United States. This case has raised awareness and prompted health officials to take immediate action to prevent further spread.
The Case Details
The individual affected is currently receiving medical treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has confirmed the diagnosis and is conducting an investigation to trace the source of the infection. Preliminary findings suggest that the individual might have contracted the plague from infected fleas found on local wildlife, such as prairie dogs, which are known carriers of the disease.
What is the Plague?
The plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is infamous for causing devastating pandemics in history, including the Black Death in the 14th century. Today, it is rare and treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed early. There are three forms of plague: bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic. The bubonic form, characterized by swollen lymph nodes, is the most common.
Symptoms and Prevention
Symptoms of the plague can include sudden onset of fever, headache, chills, weakness, and swollen and painful lymph nodes (buboes). If you suspect you have been exposed, seek medical attention immediately. To reduce the risk of plague, the CDPHE recommends the following precautions:
- Avoid contact with wild animals and their fleas.
- Use insect repellent when outdoors, especially in areas known to have flea infestations.
- Keep pets from roaming and hunting rodents.
Health officials are monitoring the situation closely and have implemented measures to control flea populations and educate the public about safety precautions. The CDPHE is also working with local veterinarians to monitor and protect pets that may be at risk.
The info stated in this article is both relevant and necessary. It’s comforting to have access to such a defined analysis of the human plague case in Colorado, especially focused on signs and how to prevent them. Everyone knows that the awareness of public health is important in addressing these uncommon incidents; I respect the author’s ability to simplify the facts for readers in a way that doesn’t elicit unjustified panic. Beautifully written and full of information.
At a wildlife rehabilitation center in Colorado, we were always looking for plague symptoms in animals. Human plague is rare, but an ounce of vigilance is worth a pound of prevention. The CDC says that up to 7 people a year get infected in the US, usually from contact with wildlife. Some simple things like wearing gloves when handling pets, or being on the other side of the door when avoiding the rodent area, can help. If anyone has tried community awareness programs, I’m curious. It could also be a great prevention strategy.