EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A New Mexico man died of plague after being hospitalized for the illness, the New Mexico Division of Well being introduced on Friday.
The well being division says that is the primary human case of plague in New Mexico since 2021 and the primary demise since 2020.
“The final human plague case within the state was a Torrance County resident in 2021. In 2020, there have been 4 human plague instances: one in Santa Fe County, two in Torrance County, and one deadly case in Rio Arriba County,” the NMDOH mentioned.
The NMDOH says plague is a bacterial illness carried by rodents and is usually unfold to people by the bites of contaminated fleas. It could additionally unfold by direct contact with contaminated animals, together with rodents, wildlife, and pets.
“Canine and cats which can be allowed to roam and hunt can deliver contaminated fleas from lifeless rodents again into the house, placing family members in danger,” the NMDOH mentioned.
Signs of plague in people embrace sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, and weak point. Most often, there’s a painful swelling of the lymph nodes within the groin, armpit, or neck areas. Plague signs in cats and canine embrace fever, lethargy, and lack of urge for food. There could also be a swelling within the lymph node underneath the jaw.
The NMDOH says its workers is conducting outreach to space residents and an environmental evaluation shall be performed in the neighborhood to search for ongoing dangers.
To forestall plague, the NMDOH recommends that you just do the next:
Keep away from sick or lifeless rodents and rabbits, and their nests and burrows.
Stop pets from roaming and searching.
Speak to your veterinarian about utilizing an acceptable flea management product in your pets as not all merchandise are protected for cats, canine or your kids.
Have sick pets examined promptly by a veterinarian.
See your physician about any unexplained sickness involving a sudden and extreme fever.
Clear up areas close to the house the place rodents may dwell, reminiscent of woodpiles, brush piles, junk and deserted automobiles.
Put hay, wooden, and compost piles so far as attainable away from your property.
Don’t go away your pet’s meals and water the place rodents and wildlife can get to it.
“With immediate prognosis and acceptable antibiotic remedy, the demise charge in folks and pets may be drastically lowered. Physicians who suspect plague ought to promptly report back to the New Mexico Division of Well being,” the NMDOH mentioned.