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Plague

Plague

DESCRIPTION

 

  • Yersinia pestis bacteria transmitted by fleas
  • Exposure to tissues or body fluids from diseased animals
LOCATION
  • Southwestern part of the United States
CAUSE
  • Acute disease from getting bitten by an infected flea
SYMPTOMS

 

  • High fever 
  • Headache 
  • Muscle aches
  • Lethargy
  • Sudden onset of fever and chills

followed by swollen and painful lymph nodes in the armpits, groin and other areas two to six days following exposure. Could also lead to primary plague pneumonia.
TREATMENT
  • Seek medical attention from a physician
PREVENTION

 

  • Spray skin with insect repellents
  • Treat field clothes with permethrin
OTHER FACTS

 

  • Animal hosts include:
    • Prairie dogs
    • Rabbits
    • Hares
    • Carnivores
    • Wild ungulates
  • 284 cases were reported between 1970–90, 50 percent of which were reported in New Mexico