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Squirrel Tests Positive For Bubonic Plague In Colorado

Squirrel Tests Positive For Bubonic Plague In Colorado

It's the first time the plague has been reported in Jefferson County

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

Health experts have put out a warning after a squirrel tested positive for the bubonic plague.

The alert has been raised in Colorado where the animal's tests came back over the weekend, with specialists saying there has been 'an increase of reported plague activity'.

The squirrel was found in Morrison, close to Denver, and is understood to be the first case of the plague recorded in the county.

In a statement, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) said it was vital that people took no risks when around animals.

It said: "Plague is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Yersinia pestis, and can be contracted by humans and household animals if proper precautions are not taken."

A squirrel in the US tested positive for the bubonic plague.
PA

The statement went on to warn that humans could contract the disease when bitten by an infected flea, through the cough of an infected animal, or through direct contact with 'blood or tissues of infected animals'.

It said cats are particularly susceptible to the disease and could die if not treated promptly, adding that pet owners who live near wild animal populations 'should consult their veterinarian about flea control for their pets to help prevent the transfer of fleas to humans'.

The JCPH recommended the following precautions:

  • Eliminate all sources of food, shelter and access for wild animals around the home.
  • Do not feed wild animals.
  • Maintain a litter and trash-free yard to reduce wild animal habitats.
  • People and pets should avoid contact with sick or dead wild animals and rodents.
  • Use precaution when handling sick pets. Have sick pets examined by a veterinarian.
  • Consult with your veterinarian about flea and tick control for your pets.
  • Keep pets from roaming freely outside the home where they may prey on wild animals and bring the disease home with them.

Symptoms of bubonic plague include fever, chills, headaches, nausea, and pain and swelling of the lymph nodes within two to seven days of exposure.

This comes after a young boy from Mongolia tragically passed away after contracting the bubonic plague.

The 15-year-old was infected with the potentially deadly bacteria after eating marmot with two other people. A marmot is a rodent and the heaviest member of the rodent family.

A 15-year-old from Mongolia tragically died from the disease.
National Center for Zoonotic Diseases

The bacteria can cause death in 24 hours if not treated. It's reported the boy died three days after being infected.

The country's National Centre for Zoonotic Diseases (NCZD) said the boy was located in the western Mongolian province of Govi-Altai. Dozens of people who have been in contact with the teen have been quarantined.

In addition to that, a lockdown has been introduced in five districts in Mongolia to stop the spread.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Science, US News, Health

Dominic graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in French and History. Like you, Dom has often questioned how much use a second language has been. Well, after stints working at the Manchester Evening News, the Accrington Observer and the Macclesfield Express, along with never setting foot in France, he realised the answer is surprisingly little. But I guess, c'est la vie. Contact us at [email protected]

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