Introduction to the Plague
Health officials in California identified a positive case of plague in a Lake Tahoe resident. El Dorado County officials said in a release that they have notified the California Department of Health that a resident from South Lake Tahoe has plague.
Current Status of the Patient
The person is recovering at home and is receiving medical care, the El Dorado County release said. No other information about the person or the person’s condition was released.
Cause of the Plague
Officials believe the sick person was bitten by an infected flea while camping in the South Lake Tahoe area, the release said. Officials are investigating.
How the Plague is Transmitted
Plague is caused by bacteria that are most often transmitted via bites from fleas that were already carrying the bacteria after picking it up from squirrels, chipmunks and other rodents, according to health officials. Dogs and cats could also bring plague-infected fleas into homes.
Symptoms of the Plague
Symptoms of plague usually include fever, nausea, weakness and swollen lymph nodes, and show up within two weeks of exposure. It can be treated effectively with antibiotics if it’s diagnosed early.
Monitoring and Prevalence
Public health officials in California monitor rodents in the area to determine if they carry plague, the release said. From 2021 to 2024, 41 rodents were found to have been exposed to the plague bacteria. Four additional rodents tested positive in 2025, all identified in the Tahoe Basin.
History of the Plague in the Area
El Dorado County officials noted how rare human cases of plague are, with the last reported case in the South Lake Tahoe area in 2020. Prior to that, two people tested positive for plague in 2015 after exposure in Yosemite National Park.
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"Plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including higher elevation areas of El Dorado County," said Kyle Fliflet, El Dorado County’s Acting Director of Public Health. "It’s important that individuals take precautions for themselves and their pets when outdoors, especially while walking, hiking and or camping in areas where wild rodents are present."
Prevention
In order to prevent contracting plague, officials warned that people and pets should not touch squirrels, chipmunks or other wild rodents, especially those that are dead or injured. People should not camp near where dead rodents were observed and should wear long pants tucked into boots and spray bug repellant to reduce flea exposure.
Conclusion
The plague, although rare, is still a disease that can affect humans, especially in areas where wild rodents are present. By taking precautions and being aware of the risks, individuals can reduce their chances of contracting the disease. It is essential to follow the guidelines provided by health officials and to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.
FAQs
Q: What is the plague?
A: The plague is a disease caused by bacteria that are transmitted via bites from infected fleas.
Q: How can I prevent contracting the plague?
A: To prevent contracting the plague, avoid touching wild rodents, especially those that are dead or injured, and wear protective clothing when outdoors in areas where rodents are present.
Q: What are the symptoms of the plague?
A: Symptoms of the plague include fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes, and typically appear within two weeks of exposure.
Q: Can the plague be treated?
A: Yes, the plague can be treated effectively with antibiotics if diagnosed early.
Q: How common is the plague in humans?
A: Human cases of the plague are rare, but it is essential to take precautions to reduce the risk of contracting the disease.
