Bubonic plague case confirmed in Oregon, linked to pet cat: Experts share symptoms and prevention tips

A resident of Deschutes County, Oregon, has been diagnosed with bubonic plague, marking the state's first case since 2015. The individual, receiving treatment, likely contracted the disease from a pet cat. Health authorities have assessed close contacts and administered preventive medication.

Symptoms and Forms of Plague

Bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, presents as swollen lymph nodes after a flea bite, typically on the arms or legs. Septicemic plague occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream, while pneumonic plague is the deadliest form, causing fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and bloody sputum.


Transmission and Prevention

Plague primarily spreads among small mammals through infected fleas. Cats, like other mammals, can carry and transmit the disease to humans. Prompt recognition and treatment with appropriate antibiotics are crucial. Vaccines for plague are under development, and prevention involves reducing contact with rodents and using flea control products on pets.

Expert Advice

Experts advise on recognizing symptoms, seeking treatment, and preventing infection. Although the recent Oregon case raises concerns, experts assure that plague is endemic to the western U.S. and advise precautions, such as avoiding rodents and using flea control products.

Plague is relatively rare, with an average of seven cases reported annually in the U.S. Immediate medical attention is advised for symptoms like fever, chills, headache, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes, which can indicate plague infection.

Treatment with antibiotics, such as gentamicin or fluoroquinolones, is effective if started early. Prevention strategies include avoiding rodents in plague-endemic areas, keeping pets away from potentially infected animals, and using flea medications. While there is no available vaccine for bubonic plague, common-sense measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection.