Flea plague cases confirmed in Colorado

Cases of plague have been confirmed in animals and fleas in six counties in Colorado – including where a 10-year-old girl died earlier this month after suffering from plague-like symptoms, according to a report .

Laboratory tests have confirmed the disease in fleas in La Plata County, where the tragic girl lived, according to CBS 4 Denver.

The plague has also been detected in San Miguel, El Paso, Boulder, Huerfano and Adams counties, a spokeswoman for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment said.

Humans typically contract plague from fleas that carry the plague bacteria or by handling infected animals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“In Colorado, we expect fleas to test positive for plague during the summer months. Awareness and precautions can help prevent disease in humans. Although it is rare for people to contract the plague, we want to make sure everyone is aware of the symptoms. The disease is treatable if caught early. Tell a healthcare professional if you think you have symptoms of plague or if you think you have been exposed, ”said Jennifer House, deputy state epidemiologist and public health veterinarian for the Department of Public Health and the Environment of Colorado in a statement.

Symptoms include a sudden fever, headache, chills, weakness as well as sore lymph nodes, according to Colorado health officials.

There is no vaccine for the disease, but it can be treated with antibiotics if caught early.

The CDPHE also warned residents to take certain precautions in areas where plague is present, including avoiding direct handling of wildlife and keeping domestic animals away from wildlife, especially rodents and dead rabbits.

According to the Denver Post, two people were infected with the plague last year but survived.