Plague Detected in California Resident
A confirmed plague case in California has raised health concerns, especially around Lake Tahoe. The rare infection, often called plague bacteria, can spread through flea bites or contact with infected animals. This marks the first confirmed human case in the region since 2020, and officials are urging outdoor enthusiasts to take protective steps.
How the Infection Was Detected
Health officials revealed that the patient likely contracted the illness after a flea bite while camping in South Lake Tahoe. Fortunately, the individual is recovering at home with medical support. El Dorado County’s acting public health director, Kyle Fliflet, emphasized that plague bacteria remain naturally present in many elevated regions of California. He stressed the need for hikers, campers, and pet owners to remain cautious.
Understanding the Plague
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms an average of seven plague cases nationwide each year. The illness is caused by Yersinia pestis, a bacterium that thrives in wild rodent populations and spreads through fleas.
Symptoms usually appear within two weeks of exposure. They include fever, chills, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. Timely treatment with antibiotics ensures most patients recover fully. Without proper care, however, the disease can become life-threatening.
Why Lake Tahoe Is a Concern
The California Department of Public Health routinely tracks rodent populations for plague activity. This year, officials identified four infected rodents in the Tahoe Basin. Before this recent patient, the last local human case was reported in 2020. With rodents carrying the plague bacteria confirmed in the area, the risk remains present, especially for campers and hikers.
Preventing Infection in People and Pets
To reduce risks, experts recommend several preventive measures. Campers should clear away brush, rock piles, and junk that create rodent habitats. Using insect repellents containing DEET significantly lowers exposure risk.
Pet owners must also remain vigilant. Applying flea control products to pets helps protect both animals and households. Officials also strongly advise against allowing outdoor pets to sleep in human beds. These steps reduce the chances of fleas spreading the bacteria indoors.
Broader Trends in the Western U.S.
Most plague cases in recent years occurred in rural western states, where rodent populations thrive. As climate patterns shift, experts warn that risks may grow in areas once considered less vulnerable. That makes awareness and consistent prevention crucial for communities like those in El Dorado County.
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