Plague in Jerome, AZ

 

The most common method of transmission to humans is through fleas on affected animals.  A Vet in Camp Verde contracted plaque when he was hunting rabbits and skinning them out.  Died!  Be Careful when around wild animals that might have fleas.  Especially could be a problem with prairie dogs and rabbits.  Watch young people going into any places around Jerome and Camp Verde and also the Reservations.

The following has been issued by the Arizona Department of Health Services:  
 Plague, caused by the bacteria Yersinia pestis, has been identified in a cat in Jerome, Arizona. The disease is suspected in at least 3 other cats in the area. Veterinarians working in this region should be alert for signs of plague in animals (particularly cats, dogs, and rodents), which include fever, anorexia, lethargy, and lymphadenopathy. Cats usually present with submandibular lymphadenititis, and abscessed lymph nodes can be clinically indistinguishable from abscesses due to other causes.
If a plague-suspect animal is identified:
1.       Notify the Arizona Department of Health Services at 602-364-3676
2.       Use masks and gloves when examining and treating the animal
3.       Recommend flea prevention for pets, and to keep pets away from high-risk areas
 
Plague is endemic in the western United States and circulates in wild rodent populations, including rock squirrels, prairie dogs, ground squirrels, chipmunks, packrats, and others. Human plague cases in Arizona occur most commonly from May–August, and usually in locations above 4500 feet in elevation. The disease can be transmitted through the bite of an infected flea, direct contact with infected tissues, or inhalation of aerosolized particles.
For more information about diagnosis and treatment of plague in animals, please see the attached fact sheet and resources below.
 
JAVMA Zoonosis Update - Plague: a veterinary  perspective: http://www.azdhs. gov/phs/oids/vector/plague/ files/JAVMA_Plague_Zoonotic_ Update%2003-03.pdf
CDC veterinary resources: http://www.cdc.gov/ plague/healthcare/ veterinarians.html
ADHS plague website: http://www.azdhs.gov/ phs/oids/vector/plague/ 

 
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