Plague is a word that many of us in Colorado feel detached from. Plague feels like a disease commonly referred to in folklore and history textbooks. Many of us are not aware that there are still plague cases in our modern world.

In Colorado, there have been over 20 cases of plague in humans. Thankfully, most of the Coloradans survived, however, there have unfortunately been deaths because of the plague disease.

Although plague is not as deadly as it used to be, it could still be deadly. Plague, like other bacterial diseases, can be cured with antibiotics. Although rare, plague can be treated easily.

Plague Confirmed in Colorado

USA Today has verified that there has been a case of plague in Pueblo County. Specifically, the unidentified person is infected with bubonic plague.

K99 logo
Get our free mobile app

The person was hospitalized but is making strides in recovery.

Bubonic plague is typically transmitted through a rodent or flea bite. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes and flu-like symptoms.

Here is how the World Health Organization describes Bubonic plague.

 At advanced stages of the infection the inflamed lymph nodes can turn into open sores filled with pus. Human to human transmission of bubonic plague is rare. Bubonic plague can advance and spread to the lungs, which is the more severe type of plague called pneumonic plague.

Best Advice For Coloradans

Canva
Canva
loading...

The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment is working to identify the source of the plague in Colorado. They are also informing us on practices of how to stay safe.

The most important advice given was to eliminate areas where rodents can hide, use insect repellent when outdoors, and treat your animals for fleas throughout the summer.

You can view the full list of safety tips here.

These Are the Most Dangerous Animals in Colorado

It's no secret that Colorado is home to stunning wildlife. However, that doesn't mean we should interact with the wildlife — some animals are meant to be avoided. See the dangerous Colorado animals you should steer clear of in the gallery below.

Gallery Credit: Emily Mashak

16 of the Most Dangerous Roads in Colorado

Some have rugged terrain, some are known for having a lot of accidents, but these are all 16 of the most dangerous roads in Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Nate Wilde

More From K99