When we think about plague, images from history books immediately come to mind: the Middle Ages, people in masks with long beaks, and whole cities struck by “black death.” At first glance, it may seem that plague is long gone, and humanity has moved far ahead, having learned to cope with even more complex diseases. But is it really so? Why is it important to discuss this ancient threat today — in California, in the U.S., and worldwide? Let’s dive deeper.
Plague: not just history
Plague is a bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis. It has several forms — bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic. Without treatment, the mortality rate can reach 60–90%. Modern antibiotics have turned plague into a treatable disease, but the infection has not disappeared.
According to the World Health Organization, up to several hundred cases of plague are recorded globally every year. Most often they occur in Africa (Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar), but sporadic outbreaks also appear in the U.S., particularly in the southwestern states. California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado are considered natural foci of plague.
California: where danger may hide
Many residents of California are surprised to learn that plague is not only a medieval relic, but also part of the natural landscape of the western U.S. The bacterium is carried by rodents (squirrels, prairie dogs, chipmunks) and transmitted through fleas. Contact with infected animals or their fleas can be enough to cause illness in humans.
The California Department of Public Health has repeatedly recorded plague cases in wildlife. Fortunately, modern monitoring systems allow authorities to quickly identify outbreaks, close recreation areas, and prevent the spread of infection.
Why old threats are still relevant
At first glance, one may ask: why worry about plague, if antibiotics exist? The problem is that diagnosis of this disease is not always obvious. Early symptoms — fever, weakness, swollen lymph nodes — can be confused with the flu. If treatment is delayed, the risk of complications and death increases.
Another important factor is the threat of antibiotic resistance. Bacteria evolve, and there is a possibility that in the future some strains of Yersinia pestis may become more resistant. This makes monitoring and quick response critical.
The role of timely diagnostics
Modern diagnostic systems help identify plague and other rare infections in the early stages. Laboratories in California and other U.S. states are equipped to detect Yersinia pestis. This is where the role of public awareness comes in: doctors must remember that such infections still exist, and residents should know where to turn if unusual symptoms occur after contact with wild animals.
The COVID-19 pandemic taught the world an important lesson: diseases that seemed “far away” can suddenly affect the whole planet. And even “forgotten” threats like plague remind us that vigilance must be constant.
How to protect yourself?
Although plague cases in the U.S. are rare, preventive measures are still important, especially for residents of rural areas and those who spend time outdoors.
- Avoid contact with wild rodents and their burrows.
- Do not feed squirrels, chipmunks, or other animals in recreation areas.
- Use repellents against fleas and ticks when camping.
- Keep pets away from wild rodents and ensure they are treated for fleas.
- Seek medical attention if you experience fever and swollen lymph nodes after being in nature.
Why talk about it now?
In the 21st century, medicine has achieved incredible progress. However, the existence of “old” infections like plague reminds us of the fragility of our protection. It is not just about fear of illness, but about understanding how important public health systems, rapid diagnostics, and effective communication are.
Plague today is not a mass threat, but it is a signal: the world must be prepared not only for new epidemics, but also for the resurgence of ancient ones.
Plague in the 21st century is a symbol of the fact that humanity cannot completely abandon the past. Old diseases sometimes return in unexpected ways, and the key to safety is knowledge, diagnostics, and prevention.
California, with its unique ecosystems, serves as an important reminder: even here, where high-tech industries and modern medicine thrive, nature continues to dictate its rules. By being aware and prepared, we can protect ourselves and our communities.
