Arizona resident dies of pneumonic plague

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A resident of northern Arizona has died of pneumonic plague, health officials said Friday.

Plague is rare to humans, with an average of about seven cases reported annually in the U.S., most of them in the western states, according to federal health officials.

The death in Coconino County, which includes Flagstaff, was the first recorded death from pneumonic plague since 2007, local officials said. Further details including the identity of the victim were not released.

Plague is a bacterial infection known for killing tens of millions in 14th century Europe. Today, it’s easily treated with antibiotics.

The bubonic plague is the most common form of the bacterial infection, which spreads naturally among rodents such as prairie dogs and rats.

There are two other forms: septicemic plague, which spreads through the whole body; and pneumonic plague, which infects the lungs.

Pneumonic plague is the most deadly and easiest to spread.

The bacterium is transmitted through the bites of infected fleas that can spread it between rodents, pets and humans.

People can also get plague by touching infected bodily fluids. Health experts recommend taking extra care when handling dead or sick animals.

Most cases happen in rural areas of northern New Mexico, northern Arizona, southern Colorado, California, southern Oregon and far western Nevada, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.