The US confirmed the first human case of bubonic plague

The United States confirmed a case of bubonic plague in humans in the state of Oregon, becoming the state’s first confirmed case of this rare bacterial infection since 2015.

The infection would have occurred through a domestic cat. Dr. Richard Fawcett, Deschutes County health officer, said in a statement that “all close contacts of the resident and his pet have been contacted and provided medication to prevent the illness.”

The case was detected last week and does not pose a significant risk to the community, authorities said. In addition, they detailed that the infected person was “treated in the early stages of the disease” and represents “little risk” to the community.

Common antibiotics such as gentamicin and fluoroquinolones are the first-line treatment for plague, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

According to the statement, if it is not diagnosed in time, it can progress to infections of the bloodstream or lungs. In this way the disease is more difficult to treat.

The case raises questions about how the plague, which is known to have killed millions of people in Europe during the Middle Ages, can spread today.

«The reason why it has not been eliminated is because there is an animal reservoir. The bacteria can infect animals and, since we cannot treat all wild animals, it persists in the wild and therefore occasionally causes a limited number of human cases,” explained Dr. Dan Barouch.

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**Interview with Dr. Dan Barouch, Infectious ⁤Disease Specialist**

**Interviewer:** Dr. Barouch, thank you for joining​ us today. With the‍ recent confirmation of a human case of bubonic plague in Oregon linked to a domestic cat, what are your⁢ thoughts on how this reflects our current understanding of zoonotic diseases?

**Dr.‌ Barouch:** ⁤Thank you for having me. It’s‍ certainly a reminder that‍ even rare diseases⁤ like bubonic plague can ⁣still resurface. The interplay between domestic animals, wildlife, and human health is complex,⁣ and​ this case ⁤highlights the importance ⁢of monitoring ⁣these‌ interactions.

**Interviewer:** Many people might be surprised to ⁤learn that bubonic plague can affect humans today. Given this situation, do you ​think there should be more awareness and education ‌on such ⁤diseases that still exist in modern⁤ times?

**Dr.​ Barouch:** Absolutely. Awareness is crucial. Many assume that diseases like⁣ plague are a thing of the past, but they persist due to animal⁣ reservoirs in the wild. Education can empower ‌individuals to ⁣take precautions ‌when in contact with animals and⁢ to recognize signs⁢ of potential infections ⁣early.

**Interviewer:** Some‌ might argue that with modern antibiotics and healthcare, the ​threat from diseases like the plague is minimal. Do⁤ you think this perspective ⁢is too complacent?

**Dr. Barouch:** I ‍do think there’s a risk‍ of complacency. While antibiotics are​ effective, timely ⁣diagnosis is ‌key. If plague progresses to more severe forms, it becomes increasingly difficult to treat. It ⁢is vital for healthcare⁢ systems to remain vigilant and prepared ‍for​ these ‍cases.

**Interviewer:** As ​people⁢ start to debate the relevance of historic​ diseases‍ in today’s world, ​do you think public health policies should evolve to address ⁣these risks more proactively?

**Dr. ⁣Barouch:** Definitely. Public health policies need to adapt to our changing environment, especially as we‍ see alterations in​ animal habitats and interactions increasing. Proactive measures,​ like‌ monitoring​ animal ⁣populations and⁣ promoting public education, ​are ⁢essential‍ to mitigate risks.

**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Barouch. As ‍we consider ⁤this topic, do you think readers are⁣ aware enough about‍ the potential dangers⁣ posed ‌by interactions between domestic animals and wildlife? How do you believe this affects​ public perception of zoonotic diseases?

**Dr. Barouch:** That’s an ​important question. I encourage ​readers to⁣ reflect‍ on their understanding of zoonotic diseases. Do they believe such issues are overblown, or do they see a legitimate cause for⁤ concern? Engaging in‍ this⁢ debate is crucial ‍for enhancing‌ public health outcomes moving forward.