Plague Resurfaces in Oregon: Man Infected by Pet Cat
In a shocking turn of events, the bubonic plague, also known as “the black death,” has made a comeback in Oregon. The Associated Press has reported a case of the plague in an adult male residing in the central part of the state. Health officials believe that the man contracted the illness from his pet cat. While the man received treatment, unfortunately, his beloved feline did not survive.
The plague is caused by a bacterium called Yersinia pestis, which thrives in rodents and fleas. When it infects the lymph nodes, it is known as bubonic plague, characterized by symptoms such as fever and headache. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the bloodstream, leading to more severe symptoms like blackened toes and abdominal pain. When the lungs are affected, it is referred to as pneumonic plague.
Human cases of the plague are incredibly rare, with only a few identified in the United States each year. Oregon’s recent case was the first since 2015. Globally, there are between 200 to 700 reported cases annually. Fortunately, antibiotics are usually effective in treating the disease, increasing the chances of survival when caught early.
However, in the pre-antibiotic era, the situation was far more dire. During the infamous “black death” in the 14th century, approximately one-third of Europe’s population perished, amounting to around 20 million people. The disease was spread through rodents and fleas on ships and could also be transmitted through infectious respiratory droplets.
In those desperate times, people were willing to try anything to cure the plague. Sir Isaac Newton famously recommended a concoction of toad vomit and pulverized road carcass, which he suggested forming into a lozenge. Another peculiar technique involved farting into a jar, sealing it, and then inhaling one’s own flatulence to counter the “bad air” believed to carry the plague and other ailments. However, it was the English village of Eyam in the 17th century that demonstrated the effectiveness of quarantine. When plague struck, residents were advised to avoid travel, limit trade, and promptly bury their dead. These measures successfully prevented further spread in the region.
While the chances of contracting the plague from a pet cat are slim, it is essential to be aware of areas where the disease still persists. Rural Western areas, including parts of Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, and Colorado, are most prone to plague outbreaks. Cats are efficient carriers due to their inclination for rodents, which can transmit the disease through fleas. Additionally, felines can become vectors themselves when they consume infected rats, squirrels, or prairie dogs. Diagnosing plague in cats can be challenging as they exhibit nonspecific symptoms like fever or loss of appetite, often leading to late detection. Fleas or respiratory droplets from infected cats can then infect humans.
If you find yourself feeling unwell after exposure to rodents or fleas, it is crucial to seek prompt medical treatment and antibiotics. However, it is safe to say that toad vomit and flatulence are not recommended remedies for the plague.
In conclusion, while the recent case of the bubonic plague in Oregon may sound alarming, it is vital to remember that human cases are incredibly rare and can be effectively treated with antibiotics. The historical context reminds us of the devastating impact the plague had in the past and the desperate measures people resorted to for a cure. Thankfully, modern medicine has come a long way since then. Nevertheless, it is essential to remain vigilant in areas where the plague persists and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our furry friends from this ancient disease.
