Coconino County resident passes away due to pneumonic plague

Plague-Related Death Reported in Coconino County

On July 11, officials from the Coconino County Health Department confirmed the death of a resident due to pneumonia plague, which is a serious lung infection resulting from the Yersinia Pestis bacteria.

This unfortunate incident is not linked to a recent case involving a prairie dog in the Townsendwinona area, located northeast of Flagstaff. Notably, this marks the first plague-related death in Coconino County since 2007, when a person had contact with an infected dead animal.

“Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the deceased,” remarked Patrice Holstman, a Coconino County supervisor and board chair. She added that they will refrain from sharing further details about the incident to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult period.

Plague cases in humans are rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are usually about seven reported cases in the U.S. each year. Consequently, the public risk of exposure remains low.

The bacteria Yersinia Pestis spreads to animals primarily through bites from infected fleas. Humans can contract the disease from flea bites or contact with infected animals. Health officials point out that human-to-human transmission is very uncommon. The last notable outbreak of this type, which usually spread via respiratory droplets, was recorded in 1924.

Given that the plague is endemic in the Southwest, the Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) monitors the disease actively, along with other endemic illnesses like West Nile virus, Hantavirus, and rabies. They implement control measures to quickly identify disease spread and keep the public safe.

To help avoid exposure to the plague, CCHHS offers several recommendations:

Avoid interactions with wild animals. It’s best not to feed or approach wild rodents and to steer clear of areas where they are known to live. Also, avoid touching sick or deceased animals.

Prevent flea bites by using insect repellent with 20% to 30% DEET, and tuck pants into socks.

Ensure your pets are treated for fleas, keep them on leashes, and keep them away from areas inhabited by wild rodents.

If you notice a die-off among prairie dogs—an indication of potential plague presence—contact CCHHS Animal Services.

To deter rodents from invading, clear away brush, rock piles, and other debris around homes. Store food in secure containers.

Avoid camping near rodent burrows and don’t sleep directly on the ground.

If your pet shows signs of illness, such as high fever or swollen lymph nodes, seek veterinary care promptly. It’s advisable to call ahead to minimize exposure to other potential illnesses.

Keep in mind that cats are particularly vulnerable to various diseases and can get quite ill.

Symptoms of the plague generally appear within 1-8 days after exposure, including fever, chills, headache, weakness, and muscle aches. Some individuals might develop swollen lymph nodes, typically in the groin, armpits, or limbs. If not treated early, the disease can lead to severe complications like sepsis or pneumonia. However, it is typically treatable with appropriate antibiotics if caught in time.

If you experience symptoms associated with the plague, contacting your healthcare provider immediately is crucial, especially if you suspect exposure to rodents or fleas. It’s best to inform them before arriving to help limit exposure to others.

For more information, visit cdc.gov/plague.