Pueblo, Colorado – Public health officials in Pueblo County, Colorado, have recently confirmed a rare case of plague in a local resident, according to reports from the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that human cases of plague are typically scarce in the United States, with an average of only seven reported annually.
Although the disease caused widespread devastation in Europe during the Middle Ages, it has become an uncommon source of illness in rural regions of the southwestern U.S., particularly in states like New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado. In recent years, certain areas of Africa and Asia have also documented cases of plague.
Plague, a potentially dangerous disease, is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis and is most commonly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected rodent flea or through contact with an infected animal. Symptoms of plague can include sudden fever, chills, severe headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, nausea, and vomiting, as outlined by the CDC.
Fortunately, plague can be effectively treated with antibiotics, but prompt administration is crucial to prevent the onset of severe illness or death. Health authorities strongly advise individuals experiencing symptoms of plague to seek immediate medical attention to receive appropriate care.
To reduce the risk of infection, health officials recommend taking preventive measures such as avoiding contact with deceased animals, regularly treating pets for fleas, and eliminating potential rodent breeding grounds in and around the home. Overall, staying vigilant and proactive in preventing exposure to plague can help safeguard the health and well-being of individuals in at-risk areas.