top of page

Bubonic Plague Outbreak in Oregon


Bubonic Plague Outbreak in Oregon

An #Oregon resident recently #contracted #bubonic #plague from their #petcat, marking the first case of the disease in the state since 2015. While the disease is rare in the #UnitedStates, it is a severe and potentially #life-threatening #illness.


#Bubonicplague, also known as the “#BlackDeath”, is caused by the bacterium #Yersiniapestis and is mostly spread through the bites of #disease-ridden #fleas. Symptoms of the disease typically appear within 2-6 days of exposure and include #fever, #headache, #chills, #weakness, and #swollen-lymph-nodes. If left untreated, bubonic plague can lead to #septicemia and cause #death.


In the case of the #Oregon resident, their pet cat was showing symptoms of the disease before the owner became ill. It is believed that the #cat contracted the disease from a #wildrodent, likely a #flea-infested#rat or #mouse. The cat then transmitted the disease to its owner through a #bite or #scratch.

To prevent the spread of #bubonic #plague, pet owners need to take precautions and practice good #hygiene. One of the most important measures is flea control for pets. Regular use of #flea #preventatives, such as topical treatments or collars, can help reduce the risk of fleas transmitting the disease.


Avoid contact with wild rodents, which can carry fleas infected with #persiniapestis, is also essential. This includes avoiding areas where #rodents are known to be present, such as #woodedareas or #fields. If you must handle a wild rodent, wearing gloves and washing your hands thoroughly afterwards is recommended.


In addition to these measures, practising good cleanliness, such as #washing your# hands #frequently with #soap and #water, is essential.This is especially important if you have been in contact with a pet that may be carrying fleas or if you have handled a wild rodent.


If you suspect that you or your pet may have been exposed to bubonic plague, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. The disease is treatable with #antibiotics, but it is necessary to catch it early to prevent serious #complications. Pet owners can also #diminish the #danger of contracting bubonic plague by keeping their pets up-to-date on their #vaccinations. While there is no vaccine for Yersinia pestis, vaccinating your pet against other diseases can help keep them well and lessen their risk of contracting it.


In conclusion, while the recent case of bubonic plague in #Oregon is rare, it is a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to prevent the spread of this severe disease. By practising good hygiene, flea control for pets, and avoiding contact with wild rodents, pet owners can lessen the risk of catching bubonic plague and keep themselves and their pets healthy.


Thank You for your time in reading Bubonic Plague Outbreak in Oregon  It is most appreciated.

Kind Regards

Steve

bottom of page