“First Case of Bubonic Plague Diagnosed in Oregon Since 2015, Likely Transferred from Pet Cat”
Health officials in central Oregon are closely monitoring a pet owner who has been diagnosed with the bubonic plague, a rare and potentially fatal disease. The individual is believed to have caught the illness from their symptomatic pet cat, making it the first confirmed case of bubonic plague in the state since 2015.
Authorities have taken swift action to prevent the spread of the disease, contacting all close contacts of the resident and their pet, and providing them with necessary medication to avoid illness. The early identification and treatment of the case pose little risk to the community at this time.
The bubonic plague is primarily spread through flea bites or contact with an infected animal. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions such as avoiding contact with rodents and their fleas, as well as refraining from touching sick, injured, or dead rodents. These measures are crucial in preventing the further transmission of the disease.
Symptoms of bubonic plague include fever, nausea, weakness, chills, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. While the illness is treatable with antibiotics, it can prove fatal if left untreated. It is important for individuals experiencing such symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
Historically, the bubonic plague was responsible for millions of deaths during the Middle Ages in Europe. It was introduced to the United States in 1900 and remains most common in the western part of the country. In August 2020, a California resident tested positive for the plague, marking the first occurrence in the state in five years. The resident may have been bitten by an infected flea while walking their dog along the Truckee River Corridor.
As the situation unfolds in central Oregon, health authorities are working tirelessly to contain the spread of the bubonic plague. Their swift response and ongoing efforts ensure the safety of the community. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of exposure to the disease.
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