Plague confirmed in six Colorado counties leaving one girl dead

[ItsjustMe]

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/plague-confirmed-in-six-colorado-counties-leaving-one-girl-dead/ar-AAMtk3w

Colorado health authorities are investigating after a 10-year-old girl died from the plague this month, the first fatality from the insect-borne disease in the state since 2015.

The plague, caused by bacteria often spread by fleas, has been confirmed in six counties: San Miguel, El Paso, La Plata, Boulder, Huerfano and Adams, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health.

The girl lived in La Plata County in the southwestern part of the state.

'We are so sad for the loss of this young Coloradan and our deepest condolences go to the family,' said state veterinarian Dr. Jennifer House in a statement published by the Associated Press.

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

1. For what it's worth, bubonic plague is endemic here in New Mexico.

Most years there are a few cases, and an occasional death. In this state the doctors are very aware of it, and people tend to get diagnosed and treated quickly.

The map below is interesting as it shows plague cases from 1970 to 2019. As you can see, New Mexico is quite the hot spot, with Arizona and Colorado also having their share.

[rickyhall]

2. When I lived Colorado we used to hunt cottontails on the prairie.

Then the plague and we had to go up to the high mountains. The rangers told us the rabbits shared holes with the prairie dogs who had fleas that carried the plague. Prairie dogs don't go to the high mountains so those rabbits safe, so they say.

[SergeStorms]

3. Rabbits, prairie dogs and pack rats.

The big three. If you're camping in the desert or adjacent areas never seek shelter in those little caves, nooks and crannies where those animals live. The chances are more than good that there are fleas in there from one or more of those animals.

Never go rummaging around in a pack rat's nest, no matter what interesting things you might find there. There will be fleas in there, guaranteed.

Learn how to enjoy these beautiful areas of our country safely.

[rickyhall]

4. Rattlesnakes hang out in places like that, too.

[SergeStorms]

5. Oh yeah.

Another reason to give those places a wide berth.