Daily News Analysis » February 2024 » Re-emergence of Bubonic Plague in the USA : 19 Feb, 2024

Re-emergence of Bubonic Plague in the USA : 19 Feb, 2024

Why in News:

  • Recently the city of  Oregon, USA reported its first bubonic plague case since 2005, reviving concerns about the disease known historically as the Black Death.

Bubonic Plague

  • Cause: Caused by Yersinia pestis bacteria, spreading between animals (primarily small ones and their fleas) and humans.
  • Transmission Modes: Human infection can occur through flea bites, direct contact with infected animals, or inhalation of infected droplets.
  • Symptoms: Can vary; bubonic plague involves swollen lymph nodes, while septicemic plague affects the bloodstream and pneumonic plague involves the lungs, being the most contagious form.

The Black Death

  • The Black Death was a catastrophic pandemic in the 14th century, estimated to have killed up to 50 million people in Europe.
  • Research indicates that survivors’ genetic mutations increased resistance but also linked to modern autoimmune diseases.

Current  Risks:

  • Current Threat Level: Low, due to advancements in antibiotics and hygiene. 
  • Annual Incidence: A few thousand cases were reported globally, mainly in Madagascar, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Peru, with an approximately 11% fatality rate.
  • Prevention and Treatment: Early treatment with common antibiotics significantly improves survival rates, minimizing the risk of a pandemic.