New case of bubonic plague was detected in the United States: they blame a cat

Authorities in Oregon, United States, reported that they are dealing with an unusual case of bubonic plague in a humanwho was probably infected by a domestic cat.

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The disease, which wiped out at least a third of the European population in the middle ages during the pandemic known as the “Black Death”is rare in developed countries. Although there is treatment today, it continues to be potentially dangerous.

The identity of the patient in western Dechutes County was not released, but authorities reported last week that the person was under treatment and that most likely your pet infected it.

“We contacted all the people close to the resident and his pet and they received preventative medications to avoid disease“said Dr. Richard Fawcett, Deschutes County health officer.

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What is the bubonic plague or the 'black death'?

Authorities reported that plague symptoms in humans begin until eight days later from exposure to a animal infected or a flea. Symptoms may include fever, nausea, weakness, chills and muscle pain.

If not diagnosed in time, bubonic plague can progress to become septicemic plaguewhich is a bloodstream infection, or pulmonary plague, that affects the lungs.

Both scenarios are much more serious. “Fortunately this case was identified and treated in the early stages of the diseaseposing little risk to the community,” the statement said.

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“No additional cases of plague have appeared during the investigation of communicable diseases,” it was confirmed. The Oregon health department said that plague is rare in the area, and that the last case was reported in 2015.

The Black Death devastated Europe in the 14th century and killed 50 million of people in one of the deadliest pandemics in history of humanity.

AFP

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