PLAGUE

Plague: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, presents in two main clinical forms: bubonic and pneumonic, with the latter being almost always fatal when untreated. Bubonic plague exhibits painful lymph node inflammation, while pneumonic plague is characterized by severe symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills
• Muscle pain
• Weakness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Transmission:

• Bite of infected fleas
• Unprotected contact with infectious bodily fluids
• Inhalation of airborne droplets from a patient with pneumonic plague
• Contact with contaminated bedding or clothing

Prevention:

• Check if plague is present in your travel area and take precautions against flea bites.
• Avoid contact with wild animals, especially rodents.
• Take additional precautions if pneumonic plague is present, consulting a healthcare provider.
• Vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups (e.g., healthcare workers).

Treatment:

• Seek urgent medical attention for symptoms occurring within 10 days of possible exposure.
• Treatment involves antibiotics.

For more details, refer to “Essential Information for a Safe Trip.”