Urgent Measures to Prevent Plague Spread Following Recent Human Death in New Mexico

The perilous resurgence of the plague has struck New Mexico, claiming its first human victim since 2020. The disease primarily spreads through infected flea bites, and in some cases, via direct contact with afflicted animals. The tragic incident occurred recently, leading to the death of an unidentified man who succumbed to the disease after hospitalization, as revealed by the state Department of Health on Friday, March 8.

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Plague

To curb the potential spread of the plague, authorities are urgently advising pet owners to take precautionary measures. Keeping pets from roaming and hunting is crucial to minimizing the risk of contact with the disease. Veterinarian examinations for sickness, coupled with the use of flea control products, can further contribute to preventing the transmission of the plague to both animals and humans.

Recognizing the symptoms is paramount for early detection and intervention. Infected individuals may experience a sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, and physical weakness. A distinctive feature of plague cases is the painful swelling of lymph nodes in various areas such as the armpit, neck, and groin, as highlighted by the state health department.

Animals, particularly dogs and cats, are susceptible to plague infection. Pet owners should be vigilant for signs such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and lymph node swelling under the jaw. Timely veterinary attention can play a crucial role in safeguarding the health of pets and preventing the spread of the disease within animal populations.

The state health department has not specified the exact timeline of the recent death. This unfortunate event marks the first human fatality attributed to the plague in New Mexico since 2020 and the first documented human infection in three years. In 2020, there were four human plague cases, with one proving fatal. The most recent incident occurred in 2021, involving a resident from Torrance County, just north of Lincoln County.

In response to the recent fatality, the state Department of Health is actively engaging in outreach efforts to inform residents of the potential risks and to implement preventive measures. An environmental assessment is also underway to identify and address potential sources of the plague. State Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures to contain the spread of this ancient disease.

Phipps stated, “This tragic incident serves as a clear reminder of the threat posed by this ancient disease and emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures to prevent its spread.” The gravity of the situation necessitates increased education efforts to ensure that residents are well-informed and equipped to protect themselves and their pets.

As New Mexico faces this renewed threat of the plague, a collective and informed effort is essential to prevent further human casualties and protect both the community and its beloved animals from the reach of this ancient and potentially deadly disease.