Arizona — A rare and serious illness has taken the life of a patient in Arizona. The person came to the hospital feeling very sick but sadly died. Doctors later found out that the cause was the plague, a disease most people think is from long ago.
What Happened?
Last week, a person came to the emergency room with a high fever, very tired, and swollen lumps on their body. The doctors tried their best to help, but the person’s condition got worse fast, and they passed away.
Tests showed the patient had the plague, caused by bacteria called Yersinia pestis. This bacteria is the same one that caused big outbreaks hundreds of years ago, but it still exists today in some parts of the southwestern United States.
What Is the Plague?
The plague might sound like something from history books, but it’s still around, mostly in rural places with wild animals like squirrels and prairie dogs. Fleas that live on these animals can carry the bacteria and spread it to humans.
There are different kinds of plague, but the most common one is called bubonic plague. It causes swollen and painful lymph nodes, which are like little bumps under the skin.
How Do People Get the Plague?
Usually, people get the plague from flea bites after coming near infected wild animals. In Arizona, the dry weather helps fleas and rodents live well, so there is a chance for the plague bacteria to spread.
Right now, health officials are trying to learn where the patient might have come into contact with infected fleas or animals.
What Are the Symptoms?
If someone has the plague, they might feel very sick suddenly. This can include fever, chills, headaches, and muscle pain. Swollen lumps called buboes often appear in the neck, armpits, or groin.
If the disease isn’t treated early, it can get worse and affect the lungs or bloodstream, which can be very dangerous.
What Are Officials Doing?
Arizona health officials are now looking for anyone else who might be sick and are warning people to be careful. They remind everyone to stay away from wild rodents and protect themselves from flea bites.
If you have pets, it’s important to make sure they don’t bring fleas into your home because fleas can carry the plague bacteria too.
Should You Be Worried?
Even though this death is very sad, it’s important to know that plague is rare and can usually be treated with antibiotics if caught early.
The chance of catching the plague is very low for most people, but it’s good to be careful, especially if you live or visit places where plague has been found.
How to Protect Yourself
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Don’t touch wild rodents or their fleas.
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Use bug spray to keep fleas away.
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Keep your home and yard clean and free of rodents.
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Treat your pets with flea medicine.
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If you feel sick with fever and swollen lumps after being outside, see a doctor right away.
A Reminder From Health Officials
This death is a rare reminder that old diseases like the plague are still around, even today. The Arizona health department wants people to know the facts and be safe.
If you ever feel sick with these symptoms and have been near wild animals or fleas, it’s very important to get medical help fast.
