Oregon human bubonic plague case 2015 pet cat officials say

First human plague case in 8 years in Oregon, likely from infected pet cat. Health officials say little risk to community.

Last week, Deschutes County Health Services revealed that a resident of rural Deschutes County, Oregon, had contracted the plague, marking the first human case in the state in over eight years. The individual is believed to have been infected by their pet cat, which displayed symptoms of the plague.

The most common way for humans to contract the plague is through flea bites containing the plague bacteria. Additionally, pets kept in the home may contract the disease if they chase rats infected with the plague. Once infected, pets can transmit the disease to humans through bodily fluids or tissues, such as respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or by bringing infected fleas into the home.

Dr. Richard Fawcett, the Deschutes County health officer, assured that all close contacts of the resident and their pet have been contacted and provided with medication to prevent illness. He also emphasized that there is little risk to the community, as the case was identified and treated in the early stages of the disease, and no additional cases have emerged during the investigation.

The bubonic plague, if not diagnosed early, can progress into the more severe and difficult to treat septicemic plague (bloodstream infection) and/or pneumonic plague (lung infection). The last case of human plague in Oregon was reported in 2015, according to the Oregon Health Authority.

Symptoms of the plague typically appear within two to eight days of exposure and include a quick onset of fever, nausea, weakness, chills, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes known as "buboes." While the plague is rare, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with pets and to seek medical attention if any symptoms develop.