Coconino County resident passes away due to plague

Plague-Related Death Reported in Coconino County

Officials from Northern Arizona Healthcare and Coconino County have confirmed that a resident passed away on Friday at Flagstaff Medical Center due to a pneumonia epidemic. This individual, who died on July 1st, had been admitted to the emergency department the same day, despite receiving treatment.

Investigation by the Arizona Department of Health revealed that the patient was infected with Yersinia Pestis, the bacterium responsible for the plague.

In a statement, NAH expressed their sorrow over the loss of local community members. Patrice Holstman, chairman of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, shared sentiments, saying, “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the deceased. We are keeping them in our thoughts during this challenging time. Due to respect for the family, we will not be releasing any further details regarding the death.”

The spokesperson reiterated that they would not disclose additional information “out of respect for his family,” and NAH cited the Medical Privacy Act in their stance.

Plague is typically spread through the bite of an infected flea or contact with a sick animal. Health officials are reassuring the public that the risk of exposure is low, and human-to-human transmission remains uncommon.

This case marks the first recorded death in Coconino County due to pneumonia plague since a connection was made with a plague-infected animal in 2007.

Coconino health authorities clarified that this death is unrelated to the recent fatalities of several prairie dogs located northeast of Flagstaff in Townsend Winona. They intend to collect and test fleas, treat burrows, and collaborate with property owners to enhance surveillance efforts.

The health department is advising residents to steer clear of fleas.

Common symptoms typically surface within eight days and may include fever, headache, and weakness. Some individuals might experience swollen lymph nodes, often called buboes, in areas such as the groin, underarms, or limbs.