A South Lake Tahoe resident has recently tested positive for plague, likely transmitted by the bite of an infected flea. While human cases of plague are rare, they can be serious. Before this most recent case, the last reported case was also in El Dorado County in 2020.
Plague is caused by bacteria, usually transmitted by fleas that have fed on infected wild rodents like squirrels and chipmunks. Symptoms usually show up within two weeks of exposure, and include fever, nausea, weakness and swollen lymph nodes. If detected early, it can be treated with antibiotics. Both humans and pets, including cats and dogs, can be infected with plague.
Take steps to protect yourself and your family as you spend time outdoors:
Do not feed squirrels, chipmunks, or other wild rodents.
Never touch or allow your pets to play with or pick up sick, injured, or dead rodents.
Do not camp, sleep, or rest near animal burrows or areas where dead rodents are observed.
Look for and heed posted warning signs.
Wear long pants tucked into boot tops and spray insect repellent containing DEET on socks and pant cuffs to reduce exposure to fleas.
Leave pets home if possible; otherwise keep pets on a leash. Do not allow pets to approach sick or dead rodents or explore rodent burrows.
Protect pets with flea control products.
Pet cats are highly susceptible and fleas that feed on infected cats can transmit plague to humans. Keep cats away from rodents.
Consult a veterinarian if your cat or dog becomes sick after being in contact with rodents.
If you get sick after being in an area where plague is known to occur, consult a physician and tell them you may have been exposed to plague.
For more information about plague, visit the CDPH website at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Plague.aspx.
