Third US resident tests positive for human plague as health officials issue warning

You could be forgiven for checking what year it is when you hear the plague, as it probably brings back memories of learning about it at school.

Now, another person has tested positive for the rare disease in the US, which is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis.

The discovery in New Mexico comes just weeks after a person was diagnosed in California and an Arizona resident died from the plague back in July.

The California resident had previously been camping at South Lake Tahoe, with officials fearing they could have contracted it by being bitten by an infected flea.

The tragic Arizona death was caused by pneumonic plague, where it impacts the lungs, and was first recorded death from the disease in the county since 2007.

Cases of the plague have recently been reported in the US (Getty Stock Image)

The person in 2007 had been in contact with a deceased animal which was infected.

The third patient this year - a 43-year old man in Valencia County - has since recovered and has been discharged from hospital.

Like the California sufferer, the man in New Mexico had recently been camping, this time in Rio Arriba County.

State public health veterinarian Erin Phipps warned: "This case reminds us of the severe threat that can be posed by this ancient disease."

She added: "It also emphasises the need for heightened community awareness and for taking measures to prevent further spread."

Kyle Fliflet, El Dorado County’s Acting Director of Public Health, had previously warned after the California case: "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."

The plague is usually found in rodents, and is transmitted by fleas as well as direct contact with infected animals, such as pets and wildlife.

The New Mexico man had been camping in Rio Arriba County (Getty Stock Image)

What are the symptoms of the plague?

There are three main types of plague.

• Bubonic plague - this is the type many people remember from history lessons, and causes swollen, painful lumps called buboes in the lymph nodes.
• Septicemic plague - infects the blood, which can result in fever, bleeding, and organ failure.
• Pneumonic plague - this is the type the Arizona patient died of. It infects the lungs, and is transmitted in the air from coughs and sneezes.

According to NMHealth in New Mexico, the plague can have a variety of unpleasant symptoms. They include fever, chills, headache, and weakness.

Many patients find that lymph nodes in the groin, neck and armpit become inflamed and painful.

Signs that pets are infected can include fever, lethargy and loss of appetite for both cats and dogs, and they pay have a swollen lymph node under their jaw.

Officials have issued a warning after the new case in New Mexico (Getty Stock Image)

How to avoid the plague

Cleanliness is key, and people are being urged to avoid any inured, sick or dead rodents.

Keeping your yard or garden clear of places rodents can hide, such as wood piles, leaf piles and abandoned vehicles.

Hay bales and compost piles should be kept as far away as possible from your home.

If going hiking or camping, wearing insect repellent is key to deter fleas and other insects. Look for one containing DEET, which can be applied to both skin and clothing.

Also make sure your pet has up-to-date flea treatment. If you fear your pet is ill, talk to a veterinarian immediately.

Be sure to keep your pet's food and water away from rodents and wildlife to avoid cross contamination.