An Oregon resident in Deschutes County has been diagnosed with the bubonic plague, marking the state’s first case in nearly a decade. Health officials believe the individual contracted the rare disease from their pet cat. The infected person and their cat have received early diagnosis and treatment, minimizing the risk to the community.

The bubonic plague, infamous for its devastating impact on Europe in the 14th century, is typically carried by wild rodents and their fleas. Symptoms of the disease include high fever, lethargy, and swollen lymph nodes. While there is no vaccine for the plague, it can be effectively treated with antibiotics if detected early.

This recent case is the first in Oregon since 2015 when a teenage girl contracted the disease from a flea bite during a hunting trip. In the past three decades, there have been a total of nine reported human cases of the plague in Oregon, with no fatalities. Health officials emphasize that contracting the bubonic plague is exceptionally rare in the US, with only 5 to 15 cases reported annually in the Western region.

The bubonic plague is typically found in rural and semi-rural areas where wild rodents are prevalent. To prevent the spread of the disease, officials advise people to avoid contact with wild rodents, especially those that appear sick or deceased. Additionally, individuals are urged not to feed squirrels or chipmunks and to keep their pets away from wild rodents to minimize the risk of infection.

This recent case serves as a reminder of the importance of taking precautions when interacting with animals and wildlife, particularly in regions where the bubonic plague is known to be present. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance to the public to prevent further cases of this rare but serious disease.