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Colorado officials said Thursday a 10-year-old boy “has died of causes associated with the plague.”
In a statement, the Colorado Department of Health and Environment said the death of the La Plata County resident was linked to confirmed plague in animals and fleas in six counties in Colorado.
“While it’s rare for people to contract the plague, we want to make sure everyone is aware of the symptoms,” said Jennifer House, deputy state epidemiologist and public health veterinarian.
House noted that plague can be treated with antibiotics if caught early, and people should look for signs of high fever and / or swollen lymph nodes.
The plague, also known as the “bubonic plague” or “black plague” after medieval European references from the 14th century, can be transmitted to humans through flea bites or through direct contact with infected animals. The adjective “black” refers to the lymph nodes – or buboes – which become swollen and black after the bacteria yersinia pestis enters the body.
The plague killed tens of millions of Europeans and was one of the worst pandemics in human history, according to the Washington Post.
House recommended that Colorado residents take safety measures to protect themselves from the bacteria, including avoiding contact with sick or dead animals and avoiding areas where wild rodents live.
“Tell a doctor if you think you have symptoms of plague or if you think you have been exposed,” House advised.
“Awareness and precautions can help prevent illness in people,” she said.
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