While the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is still spreading worldwide, health authorities in China recorded a new case of the bubonic plague that triggered the deadly pandemic known as Black Death in 1346-1353.
The first new case was discovered on July 5 in the city of Bayannur, northwest of Beijing while additional two more cases were discovered who have eaten marmot meat.
Local authorities issued a citywide level 3 warning for the plague prevention until the end of the year and advised people to avoid eating, hunting and transporting animals that may carry the disease.
The plague is caused by bacteria that was transmitted through flea bites and infected animals, killing an estimated 50 million people in Europe and Asia in the mid-1300s during the Black Death pandemic.
Bubonic plague causes buboes that are swollen, painful lymph nodes, fever and coughing.
If the disease isn’t treated immediately, the bacteria can spread in the bloodstream and cause septicemic plague. If the bacteria infects the lungs, it can cause pneumonia or pneumonic plague that can be contagious by coughing.
In the midst of COVID-19, hearing this news may be frightening to think there will be another virus spreading. Fortunately, we are clear from it thanks to treatment and prevention. The plague is now rare with few cases every year.
As long as physical contact with animals or people who are infected by the disease is prevented, chances of infection is very low.
Health experts say there’s no chance of this plague to strike again, as it can be easily prevented and cured with antibiotics.
Story by Mikaela Alyn Motol
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