Oregon Health Officials Confirm First Human Bubonic Plague Case Since 2015
In a rare and concerning development, health officials in Central Oregon have confirmed the state’s first case of Bubonic Plague in over eight years.
Dr. Richard Fawcett, the county health officer, affirmed that all close contacts have been contacted and provided with necessary medication, emphasizing the swift response to contain the situation.
Bubonic plague induces swelling of lymph nodes, known as buboes, typically appearing in the armpits, groin, or neck. Buboes are tender or painful, ranging from less than half an inch to about four inches in size.
The infected individual, residing in Deschutes County, is believed to have contracted the disease from a symptomatic pet cat, marking the first human case since 2015.
The Deschutes County Health Services revealed that the infected person was promptly treated, posing minimal risk to the community.
“Authorities have moved swiftly to address the situation, providing medication to the infected resident and all close contacts to prevent further spread,” Dr. Fawcett stated.
Unfortunately, despite treatment, the cat did not survive, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
However, the swift response has prevented additional cases during the ongoing communicable disease investigation.
Health experts assure the community that there is little risk, emphasizing that the case was identified and treated early.
“We have taken all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the community,” Dr. Fawcett added, urging residents to remain vigilant.
Bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia Pestis, is a rare infectious disease typically transmitted through fleas and rodents.
Symptoms can manifest within two to eight days, including fever, nausea, weakness, chills, muscle aches, and visibly swollen lymph nodes.
If not diagnosed early, the disease can progress to more severe forms, such as septicemic plague and pneumonic plague, posing greater challenges for treatment.
“While human cases of plague are rare, officials highlight that the disease is not unheard of in the western United States, with a handful of cases reported annually,” Dr. Fawcett explained.
The most common carriers in Central Oregon are squirrels and chipmunks, though other rodents can also transmit the disease.
To prevent the spread of the plague, residents are advised to avoid contact with rodents and fleas, keep pets on leashes, and use flea control products.
Additionally, discouraging pet cats from hunting rodents is recommended.
Historically known as the “black death,” plague had devastating outbreaks in the Middle Ages.
However, advancements in medical science have made it a treatable illness today.
“Antibiotics and supportive therapies have proven effective in managing all forms of plague, with a higher chance of full recovery if treatment is sought early,” Dr. Fawcett reassured.
“While the recent Bubonic Plague case in Oregon may raise concerns, health officials reassure the public that the situation is under control,” Dr. Fawcett emphasized.
Swift identification, treatment, and preventive measures have minimized the risk to the community.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and prompt action in managing rare but serious diseases.
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