Plague of contracts for California residents, probably due to flea bite infected during the Tahoe camp trip: officials
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A resident of California tested positive for the plague after he is probably bitten by an infected flea on a Lake Tahoe camp trip, the health authorities confirmed.
El Dorado County Human Health and Services Agency said Tuesday that the individual is recovering at home under medical supervision.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) notified local officials of the case, which caused an investigation.
“It is believed that the person may have been bitten by an infected flea while camping in the South Lake Tahoe area. Health officials are investigating the situation,” said the county in a press release.
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The peste bacteria cause bubonic plague and are transported in the pathogen of the rats. There are still many regions where the disease occurs. (Istock)
The peste bacteria extend more commonly by fleas that have fed on infected squirrels, squirrels or other wild rodents.
From 2021 to 2024, El Dorado County identified 41 rodents that show evidence of exposure to plague. In 2025 so far, four more positive rodents have been found for the plague in the Tahoe basin.
Human plague infections are rare in the US, with an average of approximately seven cases per year, according to disease control and prevention centers (CDC). Most occur in Western states, particularly in the north of New Mexico and Arizona.
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A caravan from Lake Tahoe tested positive for the plague, probably from an infected flea bite. (Istock)
Symptoms often begin with the bubonic shape of the plague, which can cause health problems that include fever, headache, chills, weakness and swollen lymph nodes. Without treatment, it can progress to septic plague, which can cause stomach pain and skin bleeding.
“The plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including the areas of greatest elevation of El Dorado County,” said Kyle Fliflet, director of Interim Public Health of the County.
“It is important that people take precautions for themselves and their pets when they are outdoors, especially while walking, walking or camping in areas where wild rodents are present.”
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The peste bacteria are transmitted more frequently by the bites of flea of rodents and other wild animals. (Istock)
The most recent human case in El Dorado County before this was reported in 2020, which was also believed to come from the South Lake Tahoe area.
In 2015, two people hired the plague after exposure to rodents or fleas infected in Yosemite National Park. Both recovered after treatment. Those were the first human cases in California since 2006, authorities said.
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Health authorities continue to investigate the last case in Lake Tahoe.
“The person is fine and is under medical care, and the investigation is underway,” said News Digital, deputy director of El Dorado, Carla Hass.
Greg Wehner is a News Digital news reporter.
The advice and ideas of history can be sent to Greg.wehner@News.com and on Twitter @Gregwehner.