Idaho Child's Plague Source Is Uncertain

An Idaho child is recovering from the plague, but the origin of the illness is uncertain, officials there said.

The diagnosis was confirmed this week and the unnamed child is getting better after receiving antibiotic treatment, USA Today reported.

It was unclear whether the child was exposed to the plague in Idaho or during a recent trip to Oregon. Officials said it is rare for the illness to spread between humans and is usually contracted through a bite from an infected flea or animal.

"Plague has historically been found in wildlife in both states," the Central District Health Department said, according to Fox News. "Since 1990, eight human cases were confirmed in Oregon and two were confirmed in Idaho."

During the Middle Ages, the plague wiped out millions. In modern times, antibiotics proved an effective form of treatment, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

Despite this, the disease can still cause serious illness and death if not treated correctly.

The plague has surfaced in other states in recent months.

Last year officials announced that fleas in two Arizona counties — Navajo and Coconino — were carrying the bubonic plague.

A warning issued by the Navajo County Health Department urged residents to take precautions to reduce their risk of exposure to the "serious disease, which can be present in fleas, rodents, rabbits and predators that feed upon these animals."

There were also several cases of the human plague found in New Mexico last year.

Central District Health Department epidemiologist Sarah Correll said people can decrease their risk by treating their pets for fleas and avoiding contact with wildlife, according to USA Today.

"Wear insect repellant, long pants and socks when visiting plague-affected areas," she said.

• Gerbils? Black Death Plague Study Suggests Rats Weren't to Blame
• 1665 Great Plague of London Cause Identified