Rare Case Of 'Black Death', That Killed 50 Million In 14th Century, Surfaces In US

In Deschutes County, Oregon, a resident has been diagnosed with a case of bubonic plague or black death, marking the state¡¯s first confirmed instance of this rare bacterial infection since 2015.

Getty

One case reported in US

According to a statement by Dr. Richard Fawcett, the Deschutes County health officer, the individual likely contracted the disease from their cat. "All close contacts of the resident and their pet have been contacted and provided medication to prevent illness," Dr. Fawcett stated last week.

As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, common antibiotics like gentamicin and fluoroquinolones are the first-line treatment for plague. The infected individual received treatment during the early stages of the disease, the statement mentioned, adding that they pose "little risk" to the community.

The bubonic plague, infamous for decimating a significant portion of Europe's population during the Middle Ages in a pandemic known as the "Black Death," remains rare in developed countries but is treatable. However, it still poses potential dangers.

Getty

Symptoms of bubonic plague

Authorities caution that symptoms of plague in humans typically manifest up to eight days after exposure to an infected animal or flea. These symptoms can include fever, nausea, weakness, chills, and muscle aches. If left untreated, bubonic plague can progress to more severe forms such as septicemic plague¡ªan infection of the bloodstream¡ªor pneumonic plague, which affects the lungs.

Precautions against bubonic plague

Dr. Harish Moorjani, an infectious disease specialist at Northwell Health, emphasised the importance of basic precautions to maintain personal and pet health. While not directly involved in the Oregon incident, Dr. Moorjani advised that maintaining good hygiene practices both indoors and outdoors is paramount to prevent contact with fleas and rodents. This includes regular cleaning of living spaces and ensuring proper disposal of waste to deter pests.

Additionally, pet owners should leash their animals while outdoors and implement effective flea control measures to mitigate the spread of infection. Furthermore, individuals engaging in outdoor activities should be vigilant against flea bites and refrain from handling animal carcasses, as recommended by the World Health Organization. These proactive steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of contracting diseases transmitted by fleas and rodents, thereby safeguarding public health.

Both variants are considerably more serious. The Black Death, a devastating pandemic that ravaged Europe in the 14th century, claimed the lives of as many as 50 million people, marking one of the deadliest episodes in human history.

For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News.