Plague, though rare, is still present in western U.S. wildlife and can be deadly without prompt treatment.
Health officials in California have confirmed that a resident of South Lake Tahoe tested positive for plague after likely being bitten by an infected flea while camping. The incident comes just weeks after a person in Arizona died from the disease.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the plague, caused by bacteria circulating among wild rodents, leads to about seven cases annually across the United States. Humans typically contract it through flea bites or contact with infected animals. Symptoms include fever, weakness, nausea, and swollen lymph nodes, often appearing within two weeks.
“Plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including higher elevation areas of El Dorado County,” said Kyle Fliflet, the county’s acting public health director. “It’s important that individuals take precautions for themselves and their pets.”
Officials stress that while the disease can be fatal, it is treatable with antibiotics if administered quickly. Public risk remains low.