A resident of northern Arizona has died from pneumonic plague, the first recorded death since 2007. The victim, whose identity has not been released, died in Coconino County, which includes Flagstaff.
Pneumonic plague is a rare bacterial infection that can be deadly and easily treatable with antibiotics. It spreads through infected flea bites or contact with bodily fluids of infected animals. Health experts recommend taking extra precautions when handling dead or sick animals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 496 cases of plague in the US between 1970 and 2020, mostly in western states like New Mexico and Arizona. The last reported death from pneumonic plague was in 2007.
“Out of respect for the family, no additional information about the death will be released,” said Coconino County Board of Supervisors Chair Patrice Horstman in a statement.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/plague-kills-arizona-resident-health-officials-say