Tragic Plague Case: Arizona Patient Dies in Emergency Room – What You Need to Know

A person in northern Arizona has died from bubonic plague, according to local health officials. The individual arrived at the Flagstaff Medical Center but sadly passed away the same day. The exact date of the death remains unclear.

The hospital indicated they did everything possible to save the patient, including initial management and resuscitation attempts, but unfortunately, they could not recover.

Bubonic plague, famous for causing death during the Middle Ages, is rare today. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that while it’s uncommon, some cases still pop up in rural areas of the western U.S. and certain parts of Africa and Asia. This disease is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which can affect both people and some animals.

Symptoms usually appear between two to six days after infection. These include fever and swollen, painful lymph nodes, often found in the armpits, groin, or neck. On average, the U.S. sees about seven human cases of the plague each year, and not all of them are fatal. According to the CDC, many cases have been treated successfully when caught early.

In this specific case from Arizona, rapid testing led to a quick diagnosis of Yersinia pestis. People typically become infected through bites from fleas on infected rodents or from handling animals that carry the disease. When treated with antibiotics soon after symptoms begin, bubonic plague can usually be cured.

The hospital is collaborating with the Coconino County Health and Human Services Department and the Arizona Department of Health Services to further investigate the situation.

Earlier this week, Coconino County reported a die-off of prairie dogs in the Townsend Winona area, which can signal the presence of plague. Officials are currently working with the property owner to test fleas and treat burrows to reduce flea populations.

It’s essential for anyone feeling unwell, especially with symptoms of a contagious disease, to reach out to their healthcare provider promptly. This is a crucial step in preventing further spread and ensuring timely treatment.

For more about the bubonic plague, you can visit the CDC’s site.

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