Plague Death Reported in Arizona
FLAGSTAFF, Arizona – Health officials in northern Arizona have confirmed the death of a Coconino County resident due to pneumonia, which marks the first plague-related death in the county since 2007.
The bacteria responsible for plague, Yersinia pestis, can infect animals through bites from fleas that carry the bacteria, according to Coconino County Health and Human Services officials.
The National Institutes of Health noted that the most recent human-to-human transmission occurred in 1924, typically spreading through respiratory droplets. Overall, the occurrence of plague in humans is quite rare, averaging about seven cases annually in the United States. The public’s risk of exposure remains low, based on updates released on Friday.
This confirmed death is not linked to recent reports of a Prairie Dog die-off near Flagstaff, which was observed on private property in the Townsend-Winona area back in July.
Unfortunately, details on the specific situation leading to this case are not readily available.
To minimize the risk of exposure to plague, CCHHS advises:
- Avoid contact with wild animals. Don’t feed or handle wild rodents, and steer clear of known habitats. Keep a distance from any sick or deceased animals.
- Use insect repellent containing 20-30% DEET to deter fleas, and tuck pant cuffs into socks to help prevent bites.
- Apply veterinarian-approved flea treatments on pets, keep them leashed, and restrict their access to areas where wild rodents live.
- Report any Prairie Dog die-off. While prairie dogs are highly vulnerable to plague, they aren’t long-term carriers of the disease. They often die shortly after infection, serving as indicators for the presence of plague. If anyone notices a sudden increase in rodent or rabbit deaths in Coconino County, they should contact CCHHS Animal Services or Environmental Health.
- Prevent rodent infestation by clearing away brush, rock piles, and debris from around homes, and store food securely.
- Avoid camping near rodent dens and discourage direct contact with the ground.
- Consult a veterinarian for any sick pets. Symptoms like high fever, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, appetite loss, cough, or eye drainage warrant immediate veterinary attention. It’s best to call ahead before visiting to limit the spread of potential illnesses.
- It’s crucial to keep in mind that while cats can be easily affected by multiple diseases, particularly outdoor cats should receive veterinary care for a proper diagnosis and treatment if they fall ill.
Symptoms of human plague typically appear within 1 to 8 days following exposure. These can include fever, chills, headaches, weakness, and muscle aches. Some individuals might also experience swollen lymph nodes, known as “bubo.” If the condition progresses, it may lead to sepsis or pneumonia. However, if caught early on and treated with antibiotics, the illness can be resolved, according to health officials.
