FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A resident of northern Arizona has died from pneumonic plague, well being officers mentioned Friday.
Plague is uncommon to people, with on common about seven instances reported yearly within the U.S., most of them within the western states, in keeping with federal well being officers.
The demise in Coconino County, which incorporates Flagstaff, was the primary recorded demise from pneumonic plague since 2007, native officers mentioned. Additional particulars together with the establish of the sufferer weren’t launched.
Plague is a bacterial an infection recognized for killing tens of tens of millions in 14th century Europe. At this time, it’s simply handled with antibiotics.
The bubonic plague is the commonest type of the bacterial an infection, which spreads naturally amongst rodents like prairie canines and rats.
There are two different types: septicemic plague that spreads by the entire physique, and pneumonic plague that infects the lungs.
Pneumonic plague is probably the most lethal and best to unfold.
The micro organism is transmitted by the bites of contaminated fleas that may unfold it between rodents, pets and people.
Folks may get plague by touching contaminated bodily fluids. Well being consultants suggest taking further care when dealing with lifeless or sick animals.
Most instances occur in rural areas of northern New Mexico, northern Arizona, southern Colorado, California, southern Oregon and much western Nevada, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
