A Colorado resident has died from the plague, according to health officials. The San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) confirmed that laboratory tests revealed the presence of the disease in a person living in Archuleta County. While the disease is rare, health authorities are urging residents to be aware of its symptoms and take preventive measures.
Plague is caused by a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through flea bites carrying the bacteria or direct contact with infected animals. The disease is commonly found in rock squirrels, prairie dogs, wood rats, and other ground squirrels and chipmunks. In light of this, SJBPH monitors prairie dog populations for signs of plague.
Residents are advised not to eradicate or kill prairie dogs on their property, as doing so increases the risk of exposure to plague-infested fleas. Instead, if an active colony of prairie dogs suddenly disappears, it should be reported to SJBPH.
Health officials in Colorado are reminding people that the risk of contracting animal-borne diseases is higher during the summer months when humans and animals come into close contact. Fleas are the primary carriers of the plague, so it is crucial to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and keeping pets vaccinated and protected from wildlife and fleas.
To prevent rodent infestations, SJBPH advises clearing plants and materials away from outside walls, reducing access to food sources, and using traps. It is also important to teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and to inform an adult if they are bitten by fleas.
While plague has a notorious history, with millions of deaths in Europe during the Middle Ages, modern antibiotics are now effective in treating the disease. Colorado’s prairie dog population has declined due to various factors, including plague, habitat fragmentation, and competition with human activities.
In conclusion, it is vital for Colorado residents to be aware of the symptoms of the plague and take appropriate measures to prevent its spread. By following the suggested guidelines and seeking medical attention if symptoms arise, individuals can protect themselves and their families from this rare but potentially dangerous disease.
