Oregon Resident Contracts Bubonic Plague, Likely Infected by Pet Cat
In a surprising turn of events, an Oregonian resident has been diagnosed with the bubonic plague, marking the first case in nearly a decade. Health officials in Deschutes County, a rural part of central Oregon, made the announcement on Wednesday, revealing that the individual was likely infected by their pet cat.
The infected resident is believed to be the only person affected by the disease, apart from their symptomatic feline companion. Dr. Richard Fawcett, the Deschutes County Health Officer, assured the public that all close contacts of the resident and their pet have been identified and provided with medication to prevent illness.
While the conditions of both the person and their cat remain unknown, officials have emphasized that the case was diagnosed and treated early, minimizing the risk to the community. The bubonic plague, notorious for its devastating impact on Europe during the 14th century, is primarily carried by wild rodents such as squirrels and chipmunks, as well as their fleas. When an infected rodent becomes sick and dies, its fleas can transmit the infection through bites to other animals or humans.
Symptoms of the bubonic plague include high fever, lethargy, and swollen lymph nodes known as buboes. These symptoms typically appear between two to eight days after exposure. Although there is no vaccine available for the plague, it can be effectively treated with antibiotics if detected early. However, if left untreated, it can prove fatal.
This recent case in Oregon is the first instance of the plague in the state since 2015 when a teenage girl contracted the disease from a flea bite during a hunting trip. Since 1995, there have been only nine reported human cases of the plague in Oregon, with no deaths recorded.
Health officials have stated that the person was “likely” infected by their pet cat. While contracting the bubonic plague is exceedingly rare in the United States, with an average of 5 to 15 cases occurring each year in the Western region, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is more commonly found in rural to semi-rural areas where wild rodents thrive.
To prevent the spread of the disease, officials strongly advise individuals to avoid any contact with wild rodents, particularly sick or deceased ones. Additionally, it is crucial to refrain from feeding squirrels or chipmunks. Pet owners are also urged to keep their animals away from wild rodents to minimize the risk of infection.
While this recent case may raise concerns, health authorities are working diligently to contain the situation and ensure the safety of the community. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, the impact of the bubonic plague can be mitigated, offering hope for a swift recovery for the affected individual and their pet.
