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Notes from the field: two cases of human plague--Oregon, 2010
MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
|February 25, 2011
Abstract:
Plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, is enzootic among rodents in the western United States. Humans can be infected through 1) the bite of an infected flea carried by a rodent or, rarely, other animals, 2) direct contact with contaminated tissues, or 3) in rare cases, inhalation of respiratory secretions from infected persons or animals. In September 2010, the Oregon Health Authority reported the first two cases of human plague in Oregon since 1995 and the only two U.S. cases in 2010.
Insights
Plague, a bacterial disease carried by rodents, can infect humans through flea bites or direct contact. Oregon reported its first human plague cases in 2010 since 1995.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Plague is a serious bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis.
- It is enzootic in rodent populations in the western United States.
- Transmission to humans occurs via infected flea bites, direct contact with infected tissues, or inhalation of respiratory secretions.
Observation:
- In September 2010, the Oregon Health Authority documented two human plague cases.
- These were the first reported cases in Oregon since 1995.
- These represented the sole U.S. human plague cases in 2010.
Findings:
- The cases highlight the continued risk of Yersinia pestis transmission to humans in endemic areas.
- The findings underscore the importance of surveillance and public health awareness regarding plague.
Implications:
- Increased vigilance is necessary for early detection and treatment of plague in both animal and human populations.
- Public health strategies should focus on preventing rodent-flea-human contact in plague-endemic regions.
- These cases serve as a reminder of plague's potential re-emergence in unexpected locations.
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