Health officials in Arizona have confirmed the death of a Coconino County resident from pneumonic plague, marking the first fatal case in the region since 2007. The Coconino County Health and Human Services Department announced the death on Friday, emphasizing that the risk to the general public remains low.
Plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, was responsible for the “Black Death” that devastated Europe in the 14th century. Though now rare and treatable with antibiotics, it still poses a threat, particularly in the southwestern United States where the bacterium is naturally present in rodents and fleas.
Pneumonic plague is the most severe form of the disease and affects the lungs. It can develop from untreated bubonic or septicemic plague and is the only type that can be transmitted between humans via respiratory droplets. Symptoms can appear rapidly, often within a few days of exposure, and may include fever, chills, cough, and difficulty breathing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the U.S. sees an average of seven human plague cases annually, mostly in rural or semi-rural regions of states like Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico.
While officials have not released details about the recent fatality, they confirmed that no further information would be shared out of respect for the family’s privacy. Patrice Horstman, Chair of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, expressed condolences: “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the deceased. We are keeping them in our thoughts during this difficult time.”
Health authorities have urged the public to take preventive measures, including using insect repellents containing DEET to avoid flea bites, avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, and staying away from symptomatic individuals or areas with recent outbreaks.
Though plague is no longer found in the UK and is extremely rare worldwide, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of public health vigilance, particularly in areas where the bacterium remains endemic in animal populations.
