Case of Human Plague Confirmed in Deschutes County Resident

Bend, Oregon- Deschutes County Health Services has recently confirmed a case of human plague in a local resident. The individual is believed to have contracted the illness from their symptomatic pet cat. Dr. Richard Fawcett, Deschutes County Health Officer, stated, “All close contacts of the resident and their pet have been contacted and provided medication to prevent illness.”

Plague symptoms typically manifest in humans within two to eight days following exposure to an infected animal or flea. These symptoms may include fever, nausea, weakness, chills, muscle aches, and visibly swollen lymph nodes known as buboes. If left undiagnosed, bubonic plague can progress to more severe forms such as septicemic plague (bloodstream infection) or pneumonic plague (lung infection), which are harder to treat.

Fortunately, the case in question was identified and treated in the early stages, posing minimal risk to the community. No additional cases of plague have been reported during the ongoing communicable disease investigation.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, plague occurrences are rare in Oregon, with the last case reported in 2015. The disease spreads to humans or animals through flea bites or contact with an infected animal. Common carriers in Central Oregon include squirrels, chipmunks, mice, and other rodents.

To prevent the spread of plague, health authorities recommend the following measures:

Avoid all contact with rodents and their fleas, including sick, injured, or dead rodents.
Keep pets on a leash when outdoors and protect them with flea control products. Prevent pets from approaching sick or dead rodents or exploring rodent burrows.
Pet cats are highly susceptible to plague and can transmit the bacterium to humans. Discourage their hunting of rodents and seek veterinary assistance if a cat becomes sick after contact with rodents.
Keep wild rodents out of homes and remove potential attractants like food and woodpiles around homes and outbuildings.
Refrain from camping, sleeping, or resting near animal burrows or areas with dead rodents.
Avoid feeding wild rodents in campgrounds and picnic areas. Store food and refuse in rodent-proof containers.
Wear long pants tucked into boot tops and apply insect repellent to socks and trouser cuffs to reduce flea exposure.

By adhering to these precautions, residents can minimize the risk of plague transmission and protect themselves and their pets from this rare but serious disease.