If You Thought Plague Was Eradicated Thousands of Years Ago, Think Again
Posted on: 22 June 2021
When people hear the word plague, they immediately think of the Middle Ages when the Black Plague spread across Europe, killing vast numbers of people and animals. But what many people don't know is that plague is still a threat to animals and people in many areas of the world, including certain parts of the United States. Here's what you need to know to protect your furry friends and yourself from this potentially deadly disease.
What Is Plague?
Bubonic plague, often simply called plague, is a flea-borne disease caused by the Yersinia pestis bacterium. In the United States, rodents, rabbits, prairie dogs, bobcats, and coyotes can carry the disease, and it is transferred from one animal to another through the bite of an infected flea. Dogs and cats can get plague via fleas or by ingesting an infected rodent. Humans can contract plague through flea bites or from pets via bites, scratches, and sneezes from an infected animal.
Plague is found in every country except Antarctica and Australia. In the United States, it is more common in warm, humid climates. Although fairly rare in this country, there have been several outbreaks over the past few decades that were responsible for large prairie dog die-offs, deadly dog and cat infections, and severe illness in humans.
How Is Plague Diagnosed?
Pets infected with plague will typically begin to show signs within 1 to 4 days of becoming infected. Symptoms include lethargy, depressed appetite, and fever. There is usually swelling of the lymph nodes under the jaw. As the disease progresses, it can involve the lungs, causing congestion, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and eventually pneumonia. This is the most serious stage of the disease and the stage at which humans can most easily become infected because of aerosol transfer of the bacteria.
Because plague is a public health concern, veterinarians who suspect plague should immediately contact state health officials. They can advise on which blood and tissue samples to collect and send to the lab for testing. Although it's imperative to begin treatment as soon as possible, samples should be taken before the administration of antibiotics. The bacterium is typically identified through staining and microscopic examination.
How Is It Treated and Prevented?
Animals exhibiting signs of plague should be quarantined immediately and treated with appropriate antibacterial medicines as soon as the vet gathers diagnostic samples. Supportive fluids may be required in severe cases. Veterinarians and staff who come in contact with the animal will wear personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves, and any equipment should be thoroughly sterilized after use on an infected animal.
If you live in an area where plague occurs, eliminate any sources of food or nesting areas for rodents around your home. Also, talk to your vet about appropriate flea control for your furry friend. If you hear of a plague outbreak in your area, it's wise to limit their access to the outside world.
For more insight, contact services like Pittsburgh Spay & Vaccination Clinic.
Share