2024-03-12 11:26:00
Friday March 8, the New Mexico Department of Health (United States) announced the death of a man from bubonic plague, a disease carried by rodents.
“A Lincoln County man died of the plague following being hospitalized for the illness,” says a press release from the ministry of the American State (NMDOH).
“This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the threat posed by this ancient disease and highlights the need for increased community awareness and proactive measures to prevent its spread,” said Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian.
A disease carried by rodents
As NMDOH states, this bacterial disease is carried by rodents and is usually transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas. “It can also be spread through direct contact with infected animals, including rodents, wildlife and pets,” the organization said.
Transmission occurs in particular via pets, which “can bring infected fleas from dead rodents into the home, thus putting family members at risk. »
A first since 2020
Bubonic plague remains a rare disease, as this is the first human case of plague since 2021 in the state, and the last death in New Mexico was in 2020.
To prevent risks, state health authorities recommend preventing pets from traveling and hunting. An environmental assessment will also be carried out in the region to identify ongoing risks.
In February, another case of bubonic plague was identified in Oregon.
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