A resident of Arizona has died from pneumonic plague, marking the first recorded death from the disease in Coconino County since 2007, as confirmed by local health officials. This unfortunate event highlights the rarity of plague cases in the U.S., with an average of seven human cases reported annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Pneumonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is characterized as a severe lung infection. The Coconino County Health and Human Services noted that the individual likely contracted the disease through contact with a dead animal infected with the bacteria, echoing a case from 2007 in the same county.
While plague is historically known as the “Black Death,” responsible for devastating parts of Europe in the 14th century, it is now rare among humans and treatable with antibiotics. Despite this incident, the risk of exposure to the public remains low, as stated by local health authorities.
Patrice Horstman, the Chair of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, emphasizing community support during this challenging time. Furthermore, the ongoing public awareness regarding the prevention of such infections continues to play a vital role. Residents are encouraged to use insect repellent to avoid flea bites, avoid contact with dead animals, and stay away from individuals exhibiting symptoms of the plague.
Health officials are assuring the community that measures are in place to effectively monitor the situation. By maintaining vigilance and following health guidelines, the spread of plague—and other diseases—can be effectively managed.
In a broader sense, this incident underscores the importance of public health education in preventing and responding to rare but serious infectious diseases. The community’s understanding and adherence to safety measures can make a significant difference in mitigating future infections.
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