California Resident Diagnosed with Plague

A resident in South Lake Tahoe, California, has tested positive for plague, health officials have confirmed. This marks the latest case of the disease in the state, which naturally occurs in areas of the western U.S. where it circulates among wild rodents and other animals.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), plague is a disease caused by a type of bacteria that usually results in about seven cases nationally each year. Symptoms, including fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes, usually show up within two weeks of exposure.

In a separate incident last month, a person in Arizona died from plague. The positive case in California is believed to have been caused by a bite from an infected flea while camping.

Individuals should take precautions for themselves and their pets when outdoors, especially while walking, hiking, and camping in areas where wild rodents are present. This includes wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and avoiding contact with sick or dead animals.

The positive case near South Lake Tahoe is not the first in California this year. However, health officials have stressed that the risk to the public of exposure to plague remains low. The risk of human-to-human transmission of plague is also low, they added.

Plague can be cured with antibiotics, which must be given quickly to prevent serious illness or death. If you believe you have been exposed to plague, seek medical attention immediately.

In a separate development, a leading pediatrician group has recommended the COVID-19 vaccine for infants and toddlers, in contrast with RFK Jr. However, this fact is not directly related to the plague updates in this article.

Stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from both plague and COVID-19. For more information on plague, visit the CDC's website.