Plague: A Millenary Infectious Disease Reemerging in the XXI Century

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Plague, historically known as the Black Death, remains endemic in foci across Africa, Asia, South America, and the USA.
• Recent outbreaks in Libya and Algeria, after decades of absence, suggest potential environmental drivers for *Yersinia pestis* (Y. pestis) reemergence.
• The risk extends beyond known foci, highlighting the potential for wider geographic spread.

Purpose of the Study:

• To underscore the reemerging nature of plague as a global infectious threat.
• To emphasize the potential impact of environmental changes on plague epidemiology.
• To advocate for enhanced governmental and medical community preparedness for plague outbreaks.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical plague occurrences and recent outbreak reports.
• Analysis of potential environmental factors influencing *Y. pestis* transmission.
• Assessment of the implications for public health surveillance and response.

Main Results:

• Plague continues to occur in established foci and has recently reappeared in areas with no reported cases for decades.
• Environmental and climatic shifts in Northern Africa may be creating conditions favorable for *Y. pestis*.
• The potential for plague as a bioterrorism agent adds to its significance.

Conclusions:

• Plague is unequivocally a reemerging infectious disease with ongoing global relevance.
• Increased vigilance and preparedness are crucial for governments and healthcare providers to manage potential plague outbreaks.
• Understanding the epidemiology, symptoms, treatment, and control is vital for an effective response to this dangerous pathogen.