In a recent development, health officials have confirmed a case of the plague in Pueblo County, Colorado. The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE) is collaborating with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to conduct a thorough investigation.
While no specific details have been disclosed regarding the affected individual, Alicia Solis, the program manager of the Office of Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness at PDPHE, urged citizens to take precautions against the plague for both themselves and their pets.
“If you develop symptoms of plague, see a health care provider immediately. Plague can be treated successfully with antibiotics, but an infected person must be treated promptly to avoid serious complications or death.” – Alicia Solis
The plague, a bacterium called Yersinia pestis, is notoriously known for causing deadly pandemics throughout history. Although cases are rare in modern times.
With public health and safety in mind, authorities are on high alert and are actively monitoring the situation. By launching this investigation and disseminating the important message of protection, officials hope to contain the threat and prevent further spread.
Here are some measures recommended by PDPHE to safeguard yourself and your pets:
- Eliminate places that rodents can hide and breed around your home, garage, shed or recreation area. Remove brush, rock piles, trash, and piles of lumber.
- Avoid contact with dead animals. If you must handle sick or dead animals, follow these guidelines:
- Apply insect repellant to protect yourself from fleas
- Use a long-handled shovel to place it in a garbage bag
- Place the bag in an outdoor garbage can
- Use insect repellent that contains 20%-30% DEET to prevent flea bites. Treat pants, socks, shoe tops, arms, and legs.
- Do not let pets sleep in bed with you.
- Treat dogs and cats for fleas regularly. Flea collars have not been proven effective.
- Do not allow pets to hunt or roam in rodent areas, such as prairie dog colonies.
- Keep pet food in rodent-proof containers.