In a startling medical case, an Oregon resident has been diagnosed with the bubonic plague, a disease infamous for its devastating impact during the Middle Ages. Health authorities are urgently investigating how the patient contracted the infection.
The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, is believed to have been exposed through contact with a sick pet cat. Officials have not yet confirmed whether the feline tested positive for the plague bacterium, Yersinia pestis.
How Does the Plague Spread?
The bubonic plague is primarily transmitted through:
- Flea bites from infected rodents
- Direct contact with contaminated animals
- In rare cases, inhaling respiratory droplets from infected individuals (pneumonic plague)
While modern antibiotics can effectively treat the disease if caught early, the diagnosis has raised eyebrows among medical professionals and historians alike.
Historical Context and Modern Concerns
The Black Death, as it was known in the 14th century, wiped out an estimated 30-50% of Europe's population. Today, thanks to improved sanitation and healthcare, plague cases are rare but not unheard of.
Between 2010 and 2020, the United States recorded:
- An average of 7 human plague cases annually
- Most cases occurring in rural western states
- About 11% mortality rate with prompt treatment
Health experts emphasize that while concerning, this single case doesn't indicate an impending outbreak. However, it serves as a reminder of how ancient diseases can persist in modern times.
What Are the Symptoms?
Typical bubonic plague symptoms include:
- Sudden fever and chills
- Painful swollen lymph nodes (buboes)
- Headache and extreme fatigue
- Blackened tissue in extremities (in advanced cases)
Officials advise anyone experiencing these symptoms after potential exposure to seek immediate medical attention.
