Plague case confirmed in California

A positive plague test in California follows a recent fatal pneumonic plague case in Arizona.

Plague case confirmed in California after Arizona death

The California Department of Public Health says a South Lake Tahoe resident has tested positive for plague and is recovering at home under medical care. Officials believe the infection likely resulted from a flea bite during camping in the South Lake Tahoe area. They have issued cautions to stay vigilant and to take steps to protect pets from fleas. There is no further information released about the patient. Plague remains rare in the United States, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting about seven cases per year. The most recent local case in the region was in 2020, with exposure linked to Yosemite National Park reported in 2015.

Plague can take several forms. Bubonic plague, the most common, is treatable with antibiotics if caught early. Pneumonic plague is more serious and can spread to the lungs if not treated promptly. Symptoms for bubonic plague usually appear within two to eight days and include fever, chills, headaches, swollen lymph nodes and weakness. Officials urge people to avoid touching dead or injured wild rodents and to keep pets away from fleas, as fleas can carry the bacteria.

This case tests how health officials balance warning with reassurance. A rare disease case in a popular outdoor region requires careful, clear guidance so people avoid panic. The public's response will hinge on how information is framed and how quickly authorities update guidance as more data comes in.

Beyond the immediate health concerns, the incident could influence outdoor recreation and local tourism. Communities may need to invest in pest control, public messaging and veterinary advice for pets. The Arizona death ties this event to a wider pattern of sporadic plague cases, reminding readers that rare diseases still demand steady public health attention.

Highlights

Public health teams will continue to monitor and update guidance as needed.