The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment, along with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, is currently investigating a human case of plague in Pueblo. Initial test results have shown that the case is positive for plague.
Plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis and is transmitted through fleas that commonly infect wild rodents. This disease can affect humans and their pets and can be contracted through flea bites, contact with infected animals, or inhalation of droplets from the cough of infected humans or animals.
If you develop symptoms of plague, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Antibiotics can effectively treat plague, but prompt treatment is necessary to prevent serious complications or death. Alicia Solis, the program manager of the Office of Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness at PDPHE, stresses the importance of seeking medical care promptly if symptoms of plague develop.
To protect yourself and your pets from contracting plague, it’s crucial to take precautions such as eliminating places where rodents can hide and breed, avoiding contact with dead animals, applying insect repellent to prevent flea bites, and treating pets regularly for fleas. By taking these steps, you can reduce your risk of getting sick with this deadly disease.
