New Mexico Man Dies from Bubonic Plague, Sparking Concerns Nationwide

The news has sparked concern in the States as health officials look to ensure the rodent-borne disease doesn’t pose a severe risk in the region.

During the 14th century, the bubonic plague killed anywhere from 75 to 200 million people in Europe during an outbreak referred to as the Black Death. 

The CDC reports that this plague was spread through rats and rural rodent species.

According to the Virginia Department of Health, 1,000 to 2,000 people still contract the plague yearly. 

The three most endemic countries are the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, and Peru.

Yet, a recent case in New Mexico saw the death of a man and has left health officials worried, per The New York Post.

Unfortunately, the patient later died, which marked the first BP-related death in over four years in the state of New Mexico.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to the family of the Lincoln County man who succumbed to plague,” said Phipps.

An environmental assessment in the community will also take place to determine the risk of plague infection in the area.

“This tragic incident serves as a clear reminder of the threat posed by this ancient disease and emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures to prevent its spread,” she said. 

It was the first recorded case of the plague in New Mexico since 2021. 

Typically, it spreads to humans from infected flea bites. However, it can also spread to humans who come into contact with infected wildlife, pets, and rodents.

The plague is a severe disease in people, particularly in its septicemic and pneumonic forms. these have a fatality ratio of 30 to 100 percent if untreated.

In nearly all cases, a painful lymph node swelling in the armpit, neck, and groin areas is reported.

The health officials also revealed they will check on any potential “ongoing risks” in the community. 

To avoid contracting this potentially deadly disease, health officials state several ways people can ensure that they are safe from the plague.

This will help limit the spread of infection and prevent pets from roaming and hunting possibly infected animals.

If you discover a spot this, then implement vector control, which is a method that limits or eradicates the mammals, birds, insects, or other arthropods which transmit disease pathogens, to limit the spread of disease.

Isolate yourself if you a noticing symptoms of the pneumoic plague. If you need to be around others, wear a mask to reduce spreading infection.

If you are noticing symptoms of the plague, share this information with your healthcare workers so they can take the necessary steps to help protect you and others.

Spray areas of suspected pneumonic plague deaths should be discouraged. Instead, cover the face and chest area with a disinfectant-soaked cloth or absorbent material.

Using soap and water, alcohol hand rub, or disinfected areas. Larger areas can be disinfected with 10 percent diluted household bleach.

Chemoprophylaxis medications like atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, and mefloquine should be prescribed to plague patients and their household members.

“People don’t realize that [plague] is not a disease of the past,” Phipps said. “We get cases in the western United States every year. We hope by increasing awareness, we can encourage early diagnosis and agreement.”