A man has sadly passed away in Arizona from the incredibly rare pneumonic plague.
The fatal case occurred in Coconino County, where officials reported the individual had contracted the disease earlier this year.
Health officials in Arizona have confirmed the state’s first death from pneumonic plague since 2007, BBC News reports.
According to Coconino County Health and Human Services, the last recorded plague-related death in the area occurred in 2007 following exposure to an infected dead animal. Officials did not release specific details about the recent case out of respect for the family’s privacy.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased,” said Patrice Horstman, Chair of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors. “They are in our thoughts during this difficult time.”
The Arizona Department of Health Services has now warned: "NAH would like to remind anyone who suspects they are ill with a contagious disease to contact their health care provider," adding: "If their illness is severe, they should go to the Emergency Department and immediately ask for a mask to help prevent the spread of disease while they access timely and important care."
Plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is best known for its devastating impact during the 14th century, when it was referred to as the "Black Death" and killed millions across Europe. Today, however, it is rare and treatable with antibiotics if detected early.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the US sees an average of about seven human cases of plague annually, mostly in rural areas of the Southwest. Despite this recent fatal case, Coconino County officials emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low.
Arizona’s Family (3TV / CBS 5) reports that the last human-to-human transmission occurred back in 1924.
Pneumonic plague is the most severe form of the disease, affecting the lungs and capable of spreading through respiratory droplets. It may develop from untreated bubonic or septicemic plague, or through direct inhalation of the bacteria.
Other forms of the disease include:
- Bubonic plague: The most common type, typically transmitted via the bite of an infected flea. Symptoms usually appear within two to eight days and include fever, chills, weakness, headache, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Septicemic plague: Occurs when the infection spreads to the bloodstream.
Although the plague is considered extremely rare in returning travelers, health agencies recommend precautionary steps for those in areas where the disease may occur.
These include: using insect repellent containing DEET to prevent flea bites, avoiding contact with dead animals or potentially infected tissue, steering clear of crowded or enclosed areas during known outbreaks, and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and urge anyone experiencing symptoms following possible exposure to seek immediate medical attention.
Our thoughts go out to the man's loved ones at this time.