Bubonic Plague Concerns in Northern Arizona

Officials in northern Arizona are investigating a troubling situation regarding the prairie dog population. The concern arises after reports of these animals dying, possibly due to the bubonic plague, commonly known as the “Black Death.”

The Coconino County Department of Health noted that the sudden deaths of prairie dogs and other rodents often indicate infectious diseases, which could pose a risk to both animals and humans. Trish Lees, a communications manager for the county, mentioned that the exact number of deceased prairie dogs is currently unknown.

In light of these developments, authorities are advising residents to take precautions. This includes using flea treatments on pets and steering clear of any contact with wildlife, especially rodents. Symptoms of the plague in humans can manifest as fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes.

The bacteria responsible for the plague are typically spread by infected fleas or animals. Humans can also contract the disease through contact with sick pets. As a precaution, Coconino County is requesting that property owners assist in collecting fleas for testing while also reaching out to surrounding property owners.

To safeguard against the plague, residents are encouraged to:

• Use veterinarian-recommended flea treatments for pets.
• Avoid areas known to be populated by wild rodents.
• Report any deaths of prairie dogs, rodents, or rabbits to Coconino County at the provided phone numbers.
• Minimize rodent habitats by clearing away debris, rock piles, and brush around homes.
• Steer clear of wild animals and use insect repellent, tucking pant cuffs into socks to avoid flea bites.
• Refrain from camping near rodent holes or sleeping directly on the ground.
• Be particularly cautious as cats are highly susceptible to the disease.
• If pets exhibit high fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, coughing, or eye drainage, seek immediate veterinary care.

Typically, symptoms of human plague can appear within a week of exposure and may include fever, chills, headache, weakness, and muscle pain, with swollen lymph nodes potentially forming in the groin area, armpits, or limbs.

Introduced to the U.S. in the early 1900s, Sylvatic plague affects prairie dogs and ferrets primarily through fleas. These animals, unfortunately, lack natural defenses against the disease.

For further information about the plague, residents can refer to official resources.