Plague Hits New Mexico

Health authorities in New Mexico have reported its first human case of the plague since 2021.

They have also confirmed the first death from the disease since 2020.

State health workers are emphasizing the need for heightened awareness, and an environmental assessment is going on to identify ongoing risks from the recent case.

The plague is transmitted from rodents to humans through flea bites, and be effectively treated with antibiotics if diagnosed promptly.

Symptoms of the plague in humans may manifest as a sudden fever and chills, accompanied by headache, weakness, and painful swelling of lymph nodes. 

On average, the Centers for Disease Control says around seven human plague cases in the United States, primarily concentrated in rural Southwest and Northwest regions.

Health authorities are urging New Mexico residents to seek medical attention if they have any symptoms associated. The name and age of the victim has not been disclosed.