NEW DELHI – The state of Oregon in the United States reported its first human case of bubonic plague in over eight years. Health officials believe the likely transmission came from a symptomatic pet cat. The infected resident and their ailing pet have received prompt medical attention, minimizing the risk to the community.

This incident marks Oregon’s first case of plague since 2015 when a teenage girl contracted the disease from a flea bite. The state has reported only nine human cases since 1995 and no fatalities, making the disease exceedingly rare. Bubonic plague, known for its historical impact on 14th-century Europe in the form of Black Death, is carried by wild rodents and fleas. When an infected rodent succumbs to illness, its fleas can transmit the disease to other animals or humans through bites. Symptoms, including high fever and swollen lymph nodes, can manifest within two to eight days after exposure. While fatal if untreated, early diagnosis allows for effective antibiotic treatment.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes an annual average of 5 to 15 cases in the western United States, where the disease is typically found in rural to semi-rural areas with prevalent wild rodent populations. While the US sees an average of around seven human plague cases annually, the hotspot remains concentrated in the rural West, particularly in states such as northern New Mexico, northern Arizona, southern Colorado, California, southern Oregon, and western Nevada.

The CDC urges residents to take precautions, such as avoiding contact with sick or dead animals and using insect repellent when spending time outdoors in areas where the disease is prevalent. While the risk of widespread outbreak remains low, it is essential to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms related to the bubonic plague.

It is important to note that the disease’s rarity and the prompt medical attention provided in this case have minimized the risk to the community, preventing the possibility of an outbreak. However, health officials will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide guidance to residents to ensure their safety and well-being.