In a surprising turn of events, Oregon has confirmed its first case of bubonic plague in nearly eight years. State health officials believe that a resident contracted the plague from their extremely ill pet cat. Thankfully, there have been no fatalities as the individual's illness was detected in its early stages, and immediate treatment has been provided.

State health authorities are taking swift action and treating not only those in close proximity to the infected resident but also the sick cat. It is important to note that incidents of the plague occur somewhere in the country almost every year. According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, between 1970 and 2020, there were approximately 500 reported cases of human plague in the US, averaging around seven cases per year.

While the mention of the "bubonic plague" might conjure up images of the medieval era riddled with diseased rats and carts filled with the dead, it is crucial to acknowledge that medical advancements have come a long way since then. Modern antibiotics are highly effective in combating the illness, provided it is detected in its early stages.

The carriers of the plague have remained consistent throughout history. Most commonly, rodents and other small woodland mammals play host to this disease. Squirrels, chipmunks, rats, cats, and even prairie dogs can carry the plague. Cats, in particular, are considered "highly susceptible" to infection due to their instinct to hunt and consume rodents.

To mitigate the risk of infection, health officials in Oregon are advising pet owners to discourage their cats from hunting rodents and seek veterinary attention immediately if their feline companions exhibit any signs of illness after coming into contact with these animals.

Moreover, the news of bubonic plague resurfacing in the United States coincides with a tragic incident in Colorado where a 10-year-old girl died from the disease. The girl, who was known to raise hogs, is believed to have contracted the infection from fleas that had potentially jumped from the hogs to the girl. Authorities also suspect that the plague may have spread among the local prairie dog population, as an entire colony vanished around the same time.

This incident serves as a reminder that prairie dogs are especially susceptible to the plague and act as a vital indicator for Colorado health officials to initiate testing. In case of decreased rodent activity in areas where such activity is typically observed, residents are advised to contact their local public health agency immediately, as this could be a potential sign of bubonic plague outbreak.

It is important to note that the bubonic plague can be transmitted to humans through flea bites or direct contact with infected animals. The symptoms of the disease are often similar to illnesses like the flu or Covid-19, with individuals experiencing coughs, fevers, and swollen lymph nodes.

While Oregon's recent case of bubonic plague raises concern, it is crucial to remember that prompt detection and treatment significantly increase the chances of recovery. The state health officials are actively monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

In the United States, cases of bubonic plague are more frequently reported in New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado. On a global scale, Africa typically records the highest number of plague cases each year, according to the CDC.

As researchers continue to study and develop strategies to combat the plague, it is important for individuals to remain vigilant and follow health recommendations to protect themselves and their pets from potential infections.