A resident from northern Arizona has succumbed to pneumonic plague, as confirmed by health officials on Friday. This incident marks the first death from this form of the plague since 2007 and occurred in Coconino County, which encompasses Flagstaff. Plague occurrences are rare in the United States, with only about seven cases reported annually, primarily in the western regions, according to federal health data.
While the plague is historically infamous for decimating populations in 14th-century Europe, it is now treatable with antibiotics. The most prevalent form is bubonic plague, which primarily transmits among rodent species like prairie dogs and rats. Other variants include septicemic plague, which affects the entire body, and pneumonic plague, which targets the lungs and is the most severe and easily transmissible.
Details regarding the identity of the victim have not been disclosed. Transmission of plague bacteria typically occurs via bites from infected fleas that move between animals and humans, with additional risk of contracting the infection through contact with bodily fluids of infected animals. Health authorities advise exercising caution when dealing with sick or deceased animals.