Human plague case reported; patient likely exposed while camping

The New Mexico Department of Wellness NMDOH has disclosed the first circumstance of human plague in New Mexico strength representatives authenticated the infectious malady in a -year-old man from Valencia County who was hospitalized and has been discharged since the Aug press release The man just now spent time camping in Rio Arriba County where officers believe he may have been exposed FIVE DEATHS REVEALED AMID BACTERIAL INFECTION OUTBREAK IN MAJOR CITYThe plague is known to circulate among wildlife throughout the western U S the release stated Erin Phipps state general soundness veterinarian for NMDOH commented in a announcement that this occurrence is a reminder of the severe threat that can be posed by this ancient disorder It also emphasizes the need for heightened public awareness and for taking measures to prevent further spread The last human plague affair in New Mexico was recorded in a Lincoln County resident in The plague is a bacterial disorder of rodents which is generally transmitted to humans through infected flea bites according to NMDOH The illness can also be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals including wildlife and even pets Responses can include fever chills headache and weakness and a painful swelling of the lymph node in areas of the body like the groin armpit and neck In cats and dogs clues can include fever lethargy and loss of appetite in addition to lymph node swelling under the jaw CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR VITALITY NEWSLETTERThe plague can be treated with antibiotic medications which can greatly reduce the fatality rate in people and pets after a prompt finding NMDOH reports The best techniques to prevent plague infection are avoiding sick or dead rodents and rabbits cleaning up areas where rodents may nest and storing hay wood and compost piles far away from the home Using insect repellent while camping hiking or working outdoors can also help to prevent plague exposure For those with pets NMDOH recommends using an appropriate flea repellent and having sick pets examined by a veterinarian For more Medical articles visit foxnews com healthAny unexpected illness involving a sudden severe fever should be checked out by a medical practitioner Fox News Digital reached out to NMDOH for comment