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Published on: February 17, 2014
Primary pneumonic plague contracted from a mountain lion carcass
David Wong1, Margaret A Wild, Matthew A Walburger
1Office of Public Health, National Park Service, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. david_wong@nps.gov
Summary
A wildlife biologist died from pneumonic plague after a mountain lion necropsy. This case highlights the risk of zoonotic disease transmission and the need for personal protective equipment when handling wildlife.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Primary pneumonic plague, a rare and fatal Yersinia pestis infection, arises from inhaling bacteria.
- It can be transmitted between people, posing a significant public health risk.
- This report details a case in a wildlife biologist with potential occupational exposure.
Observation:
- A wildlife biologist died one week after performing a mountain lion necropsy without personal protective equipment.
- Symptoms included fever and hemoptysis, with postmortem examination revealing lung consolidation and hemorrhage.
- Yersinia pestis was confirmed in both the biologist and the mountain lion.
Findings:
- The biologist contracted primary pneumonic plague from inhaling aerosols during the necropsy.
- Genetic analysis confirmed indistinguishable Yersinia pestis strains from the biologist and mountain lion.
- Chemoprophylaxis was administered to 49 close contacts, none of whom developed plague.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for zoonotic disease transmission during wildlife necropsies.
- Emphasizes the critical need for enhanced awareness and consistent use of personal protective equipment for wildlife professionals.
- Highlights the importance of biosafety protocols in preventing occupational exposure to dangerous pathogens.
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