The Black Death Returns: Oregon Man Contracts Bubonic Plague, Pet Cat Suspected Source

In a startling revelation that echoes centuries of history, a resident of Deschutes County, Oregon, has been diagnosed with bubonic plague, sending a ripple of concern through the community. This rare case, often referred to chillingly as 'The Black Death,' is believed to have originated from the individual's own beloved pet cat, according to local health authorities.

Dr.

Richard Fawcett, Deschutes County Health Officer, confirmed the diagnosis and assured the public that the case was identified and treated early, leading to a positive prognosis for the patient. The individual developed symptoms within a week of exposure, prompting a swift response from public health officials who quickly isolated the case and initiated treatment.

This proactive approach underscores the critical importance of early detection in managing such serious infections.

While the bubonic plague might seem like a relic of the distant past, it is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis and can be transmitted to humans through the bite of infected fleas, or by direct contact with infected animals.

Rodents are the primary carriers, but pets can sometimes bring infected fleas into homes or become infected themselves. Symptoms typically include sudden onset of fever, headache, chills, and weakness, often accompanied by painfully swollen lymph nodes called buboes, which give the disease its name.

Oregon has a history of sporadic plague cases, with the last human infection reported in 2015.

Such occurrences serve as a stark reminder that while rare, the disease has not been entirely eradicated and remains a public health concern, particularly in areas where rodents and fleas are prevalent. Historically, the bubonic plague devastated populations across continents, but today, thanks to modern medicine, it is treatable with common antibiotics, especially when diagnosed promptly.

Health officials are advising residents to take precautions to prevent exposure.

This includes avoiding sick or dead rodents and other animals, using flea control products for pets, and wearing gloves when handling any potentially infected animals. If any pet seems unwell, particularly displaying symptoms like fever, lethargy, or swollen glands, veterinary attention should be sought immediately.

This unusual case in Oregon highlights the ongoing vigilance required to monitor and manage zoonotic diseases—those that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

While the thought of the Black Death resurfacing is unsettling, the swift response and effective treatment available offer reassurance that modern medicine is well-equipped to handle such challenges, ensuring public safety remains paramount.