Man is diagnosed in California after flea bite

The bubonic plague is present in many parts of California, including higher areas of El Dorado County. It is important for people to protect themselves and their pets when they are outdoors, especially in hiking, trails and camping in areas where wild rodents are present.
Kyle Fliflet, interim director of public health of El Dorado

Bubonic plague cases are not so rare. According to WHO (World Health Organization), it is estimated that from 1,000 to 3,000 people are still infected with the disease a year, especially in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and Peru.

The bubonic plague is caused by the bacteria Yersinia Pestis. It can be transmitted to humans through infected fleas bites or by handling an animal with the disease.

The most common symptom of bubonic plague is the swelling of the ganglia, structures of the lymphatic system that act in the defense of the body against infections. There are also evidence of fever, weakness, chills and headache.

Treatment needs to be done quickly with antibiotics. Signs usually appear between one and eight days after contact with the bacteria. The Black Plague was responsible for one of the pandemics that killed more than 200 million people throughout history.

US authorities recommend not contacting wild animals, even if they are killed. Use of repellent and long pants are recommendations, especially in areas with nature, to prevent the chopped infected fleas. It is also indicated to remove shrubs, trash and wood close to houses to prevent rodent infestations.