Human bubonic plague transmitted by a domestic cat scratch

Area of Science:

• Zoonotic diseases
• Infectious disease transmission
• Public health

Background:

• Bubonic plague is a serious bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis.
• Transmission typically occurs through flea bites from infected rodents.
• Domestic animals can act as intermediaries in disease spread.

Observation:

• A 10-year-old girl in Oregon contracted bubonic plague.
• The infection was linked to a scratch wound from a domestic cat.
• The cat was likely infected through contact with wild rodents or their fleas.

Findings:

• Yersinia pestis was identified in Diamanus montanus fleas found near the patient's residence.
• Domestic cats can transmit Yersinia pestis to humans via inoculation, such as through scratches.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential role of domestic cats in the transmission cycle of bubonic plague.
• Awareness and preventive measures are crucial for households with pets in areas endemic for plague.
• Further research into cat-mediated Yersinia pestis transmission is warranted to inform public health strategies.