Deshutes County, Oregon – A rural county in central Oregon, reported the first case of bubonic plague in nearly a decade, with a local resident becoming infected, likely through contact with their pet cat. Health officials announced the case on Wednesday, noting that the infected person is believed to be the only human case, apart from the symptomatic pet. The Deschutes County Health Officer, Dr. Richard Fawcett, confirmed that all close contacts of the resident and their pet have been contacted and provided medication to prevent illness.
The current conditions of the person and their pet are not yet known, but officials stated that the case was diagnosed and treated early, minimizing risk to the community. The bubonic plague, known for its devastating impact on Europe in the 14th century, is typically carried by wild rodents and their fleas, and can be transmitted to other animals or humans through bites. Symptoms, including high fever, lethargy, and swollen lymph nodes, usually manifest within two to eight days after exposure. While there is no vaccine for the plague, it is treatable with antibiotics if caught early, but can be fatal if left untreated.
This is not the first time the state of Oregon has reported a case of bubonic plague, with the last known case occurring in 2015 when a teenage girl contracted the disease from a flea bite during a hunting trip. Since 1995, Oregon has had a total of nine human cases of plague, with no reported deaths. While the disease is rare in the US, with an average of 5 to 15 cases occurring each year in the West, it is mainly found in rural to semi-rural areas where wild rodents are more common.
To prevent further cases, health officials advise people to avoid contact with wild rodents, especially if they are sick or dead, and not to feed squirrels or chipmunks. Additionally, keeping pets away from wild rodents is recommended to avoid infection. These measures can help minimize the risk of exposure to the plague, which remains a concern in some parts of the US.
The confirmed case of bubonic plague is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by infectious diseases, and public health officials are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any potential outbreaks. Overall, the case serves as a crucial reminder for individuals to be mindful of their interactions with wildlife and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their pets from the risk of infectious diseases.