From History Books to Headlines: Plague in Modern Times

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Microbiology

Background:

• Plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, remains a relevant public health issue globally.
• Transmission occurs via flea bites or infected animal contact, with persistence in regions like the southwestern U.S.
• The disease manifests as bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic plague.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight plague as a current public health concern.
• To emphasize the different forms of plague and their characteristics.
• To underscore the importance of preparedness for clinicians.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on plague epidemiology and clinical presentation.
• Analysis of Yersinia pestis transmission routes.
• Discussion of diagnostic and treatment strategies.

Main Results:

• Plague persists globally, with Yersinia pestis as the causative agent.
• Pneumonic plague is the most virulent and transmissible form, posing a bioterrorism risk.
• An average of seven U.S. cases annually necessitates clinical awareness.

Conclusions:

• Early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic intervention are vital for reducing plague morbidity and mortality.
• Vigilant public health measures are essential for controlling plague outbreaks.
• Emergency nurse practitioners and clinicians must be prepared to manage plague cases.