An adult in Montezuma County has been infected with the plague and health officials are urging everyone to avoid exposure to fleas and rodents.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has not released any details about the person or his condition. The person was likely exhibited on private property, so there is no specific area that hikers and campers should avoid at this time, the department said.
The initial symptoms of plague are similar to the flu, although some people develop hard, swollen lymph nodes. Because the disease escalates so quickly, people with flu-like symptoms who were exposed to rodents or fleas should seek immediate help, the department said. Treatment with antibiotics is most likely to be successful if given early.
To prevent exposure to the plague:
• Treat your pets for fleas and keep them away from wild animals. Seek veterinary treatment if your pet has a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, or an open sore.
• Avoid areas where rodents live. If you must go inside, wear insect repellent and tuck your pants into your socks.
• Never touch or feed wild animals, including squirrels
• Remove food sources that may attract rodents to your home
• Notify your county health department if you notice dead rodents
• Although prairie dogs are particularly susceptible to plague, the health department advised people not to kill them as it could increase the risk of disease transmission
Plague infections usually peak in the summer. Colorado recorded 72 cases from 2005 to 2021including 11 dead.