Recently, state health officials reported the first human case of bubonic plague in approximately eight years, with Deschutes County Health Services in Oregon identifying a potential link to a pet cat.
Health officer Dr. Richard Fawcett revealed that the infected person likely contracted the plague from their “very sick” cat, which had a draining abscess. The infection had progressed to the bloodstream by the time the individual sought medical attention, raising concerns about potential transmission.
There are indications that the patient developed a cough, a potential sign of the disease progressing to the pneumonic plague, a severe and sometimes deadly form that can be transmitted person-to-person. Dr. Fawcett emphasized uncertainty regarding person-to-person transmission but acknowledged its possibility.
The bubonic plague is typically contracted by animals through flea bites or contact with infected rodents. Humans can become infected through exposure to tissues or bodily fluids, especially during coughs and sneezes.
Cats, being more susceptible to the plague due to difficulties in fighting it off and their tendency to hunt rodents, pose a higher risk. The recently diagnosed individual received antibiotic treatment, with close contacts also undergoing medical care as a precaution.
Dr. Fawcett emphasized the importance of proactive measures, advising pet owners to keep animals on leashes outdoors, utilize flea control products, and seek veterinary care promptly if their pets show signs of illness after contact with rodents. Additionally, humans are urged to avoid contact with rodents and refrain from attempting to feed squirrels or chipmunks.
While the risk of widespread transmission in Oregon is considered low, health officials underscore the need for vigilance. On average, the U.S. reports around seven human cases of the plague annually, making awareness and preventive measures crucial.
