[Human plague and pneumonic plague : pathogenicity, epidemiology, clinical presentations and therapy]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Yersinia pestis is a highly pathogenic bacterium responsible for human plague.
• Plague has caused millions of deaths throughout history via three major pandemics.
• The pathogen remains endemic in various countries, affecting mammal species and fleas, making eradication unlikely.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of Yersinia pestis, its transmission, clinical manifestations, and public health implications.
• To highlight the importance of rapid diagnosis, treatment, and control measures for plague.
• To address the threat of antibiotic-resistant Yersinia pestis strains.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical and current epidemiological data on plague.
• Description of Yersinia pestis transmission routes and clinical presentations.
• Discussion of public health strategies for plague containment and surveillance.

Main Results:

• Yersinia pestis infection can occur through flea bites, ingestion, or inhalation, leading to bubonic, pneumonic, or septicemic forms.
• Most human plague cases are treatable with antibiotics, but pneumonic plague poses a high risk of transmission and mortality.
• While antibiotic-resistant strains have been identified, no large outbreaks have been reported to date.

Conclusions:

• Plague is a re-emerging infectious disease requiring continuous surveillance and control efforts.
• Effective management relies on prompt diagnosis, antibiotic therapy, isolation of patients, contact tracing, and vector control.
• The potential emergence of antibiotic-resistant Yersinia pestis necessitates ongoing vigilance and research.