In a tragic turn of events, health officials in New Mexico have reported the state's first human fatality from the plague since 2020. The deceased individual, a resident of Lincoln County in the southeastern part of the state, was hospitalized before succumbing to the disease, as stated in a press release by the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH).

Plague, often transmitted to humans through flea bites or contact with infected animals, is a treatable disease with readily available antibiotics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize that seeking early medical care significantly increases the chances of a full recovery.

In response to this incident, the NMDOH is taking proactive measures to assess the risk in the community. Staff members are reaching out to residents of the affected area, and an environmental evaluation will be conducted to determine the extent of the problem.

Health officials have highlighted that despite commonly associating the plague with the devastating Black Death pandemic that ravaged Europe during the Middle Ages, the disease still lingers today. Dr. Erin Phipps, the State Public Health Veterinarian, emphasized that the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which causes the plague, naturally occurs in rural and semi-rural regions of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah.

The disease primarily affects wild rodents such as wood rats, rock squirrels, ground squirrels, mice, prairie dogs, and chipmunks. Humans can contract the plague by being bitten by fleas carrying the bacterium or through direct contact with infected animals, including pets.

Plague manifests in three forms: bubonic plague, characterized by enlarged lymph nodes known as buboes; septicemic plague, when the bacteria enter the bloodstream; and pneumonic plague, involving the infection of the lungs. Typical symptoms include headache, fever, chills, weakness, and in the case of bubonic plague, swollen lymph nodes.

Diagnosing the plague can be challenging as its symptoms resemble those of other diseases. Hence, receiving a proper diagnosis from a trained physician is crucial to initiate timely treatment. Before the advent of antibiotics, two-thirds of individuals infected with the plague died from the disease. However, with medical advancements, the current mortality rate stands at around 10%, according to Dr. Phipps.

To mitigate the risk of plague, the NMDOH advises residents to clean up areas around their homes where rodents may dwell, prevent pets from roaming and hunting, store pet food securely to avoid attracting rodents, and keep hay and wood away from the house. Additionally, immediate veterinary examination is recommended for sick pets, and individuals experiencing unexplained illnesses should consult their doctors.

Dr. Phipps stresses the importance of understanding that plague is not a disease relegated to the past. Cases are reported in the western United States every year. By increasing awareness, health officials hope to promote early diagnosis and appropriate measures, particularly for those living in or near wild rodent populations, including indoor and outdoor pet owners.

The news of the New Mexico man's death closely follows another recent incident in Oregon, where an individual contracted the plague, likely after coming into contact with their cat, as stated by health officials in the state. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the ongoing presence of this age-old disease and the need for continued vigilance.

The NMDOH and other health agencies strive to ensure that plague remains on the public's radar, with the ultimate goal of preventing further human casualties.