Health officials in California have confirmed that a South Lake Tahoe resident has tested positive for plague, a disease historically known as the “Black Death.” The individual is receiving treatment at home and is expected to recover. The case comes shortly after a resident in Arizona passed away from pneumonic plague in July.
Authorities believe the California resident may have been exposed while camping in the South Lake Tahoe area, likely through a flea bite from a wild rodent. While the disease is now very rare, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports an average of about seven cases per year in the United States. Previous cases in the region were reported in 2020 and 2015.
Plague is caused by the Yersinia pestis bacteria and can present in different forms, with bubonic plague being the most common. Symptoms typically include fever, chills, headache, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes, appearing within a few days after exposure. Fortunately, modern medicine has made the disease treatable with antibiotics when detected early.
Local health officials are reminding residents and visitors to take precautions while outdoors. People are advised to avoid contact with wild rodents, refrain from touching sick or dead animals, and ensure pets are protected from fleas. While rare, plague naturally exists in some higher elevation areas of California, making awareness and prevention important for public safety.