Case of human plague confirmed in Deschutes County

Jenna Deml
·2 min read

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Deschutes County Health Services confirmed a case of human plague in a local resident Wednesday, who they say was likely infected by their pet cat.

According to Oregon Health Authority, the plague is generally rare in the state, with the last case being reported in 2015.

It spreads to humans or animals through a bite from an infected flea or through contact with and animal who has the disease.

OHA added that the most common animals to carry plague in Central Oregon are squirrels and chipmunks. However, mice and other rodents can also carry it.

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Symptoms of plague may include a sudden onset of fever, nausea, weakness, chills, muscle aches, and/or swollen lymph nodes called buboes, DCHS stated in a press release. The symptoms usually begin to show in two to eight days after exposure to an infected animal or flea.

DCHS added that bubonic plague can progress to more severe and harder-to-treat forms like septicemic plague (a bloodstream infection) and/or pneumonic plague (a lung infection) if not treated early.

Fortunately, this case was identified in the earlier stages of the disease and according to health officers with DCHS, the resident and their pet have been provided necessary treatment.

Additionally, DCHS stated no other cases of plague have been reported during their investigation. But they did offer tips to help prevent the spread:

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  • People and their pets should avoid all contact with rodents and their fleas. Never touch sick, injured or dead rodents.

  • Keep pets on a leash when outdoors use flea treatment products on them.

  • Since pet cats are highly susceptible to plague and can transmit it to humans, DCHS recommends discouraging their hunting of rodents.

  • Residents should keep wild rodents out of homes by removing food, woodpiles, etc. around their homes and outbuildings.

  • Do not camp or sleep near animal burrows or areas where dead rodents have been found.

  • Do not feed squirrels, chipmunks or other wild rodents in campgrounds and picnic areas.

  • Wear long pants tucked into boots and apply insect spray to socks and pant cuffs to reduce exposure to fleas.

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