In a tragic turn of events, a resident of Lincoln County, New Mexico, has become the state’s first recorded fatality from the plague since 2020. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, contracted the disease and unfortunately lost their life, as confirmed by the New Mexico Department of Health on Friday.
The victim was hospitalized due to the illness, marking the first reported case of this rodent-origin bacterial disease in the state since 2021, raising concerns about the resurgence of such rare and deadly infections.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of the Lincoln County man who tragically lost his life to the plague,” expressed Erin Phipps, the state veterinarian.
The bacterial infection, commonly transmitted through bites from infected fleas, can make its way to humans through a series of interactions within the animal kingdom. Outdoor dogs and cats, given the freedom to roam, can inadvertently introduce the infected fleas that have fed on deceased rodents.
The health department of New Mexico has prioritized outreach and prevention efforts in its announcement, urging residents to steer clear of wild animal nests and take precautions to safeguard pets from infection. This includes the use of flea control products and ensuring that pets do not roam or hunt freely.
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“This unfortunate incident underscores the dangers posed by this age-old disease, highlighting the importance of increased community awareness and proactive measures to curb its transmission,” emphasized Phipps.
The release of specific details about the recent plague case in New Mexico proved challenging due to the state’s predominantly rural and small population, coupled with stringent patient privacy laws, according to David Morgan, the public information officer for the department. Details such as the individual’s age, the source of the illness, and the specific location in Lincoln County where the disease was contracted are not disclosed.
In response to the situation, the department has announced plans to “conduct an environmental assessment in the community” as part of its efforts to assess and mitigate potential risks.
Plague cases in the United States are predominantly confined to the Western region, with over half of all documented cases between 1970 and 2020 originating in New Mexico alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports an annual range of 1-17 cases across the entire country.
