Plague Alert: Oregon’s First Human Case in 8 Years Linked to Pet Cat – Health Officials on High Alert
In a surprising turn of events, health officials in Deschutes County, Oregon, have reported the state’s first human case of plague in over eight years. The source of the infection is believed to be a pet cat exhibiting symptoms of the disease, according to Deschutes County Health Services.
Residents were alerted this week after a person in Deschutes County was diagnosed with plague, with strong indications that the infection originated from their ailing pet cat. Plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is typically transmitted to humans through flea bites. However, household pets can also contract the disease by hunting infected rodents or being bitten by fleas carrying the bacteria.
Cats, in particular, are susceptible to plague due to their tendency to chase and capture rodents. Dr. Richard Fawcett, a health officer for Deschutes County, mentioned that the involved cat was notably ill, displaying symptoms such as a draining abscess, indicating a substantial infection.
The owner’s infection began in a lymph node, diagnosed as bubonic plague, and progressed to the bloodstream. Fortunately, the patient responded well to antibiotic treatment. Despite concerns of potential pneumonic plague development, it remains uncertain if the disease reached that stage.
Plague cases are relatively rare in the United States, with an average of seven reported annually, mainly in the rural West. The Four Corners region near Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico is considered a hot spot for plague occurrences.
Deschutes County Health Services recommends precautionary measures for pet owners, including keeping animals on a leash outdoors, using flea control products, and seeking veterinary care if pets exhibit signs of illness after contact with rodents.
While over 80% of plague cases in the U.S. are bubonic and easily treatable with antibiotics, untreated cases can progress to septicemic or pneumonic plague, posing higher risks. Health officials are closely monitoring close contacts of the infected person to mitigate any potential spread.
Despite sporadic cases in central Oregon in recent years, the overall risk in Deschutes County is deemed low. Fawcett reassures the community, stating, “I do not imagine that would be hardly any significant risk to our community,” emphasizing the importance of vigilance and preventive measures.
As Oregon faces this uncommon health concern, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of their families and pets.
In a surprising turn of events, health officials in Deschutes County, Oregon, have reported the state’s first human case of plague in over eight years. The source of the infection is believed to be a pet cat exhibiting symptoms of the disease, according to Deschutes County Health Services. Residents were alerted this week after a…