Plague Is Still an International Public Health Concern

Format: Fact Sheet
Institute: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

Plague, best known for killing one-third of Europe’s population in the 14th century, remains an international concern today. Approximately 10 to 20 people in the United States develop plague each year, usually as a result of being bitten by an infected rodent or flea.

NIAID has updated its fact sheet on plague, including information on a rapid diagnostic test for pneumonic plague—the only form of the disease that can be transmitted from person to person—that was developed by NIAID-funded scientists. The Institute is also collaborating with other researchers on the development of a vaccine that protects against pneumonic plague and additional antibiotics to treat it. Research on the bacteria that cause plague is also important because of the microbe’s potential as a possible bioterror agent.

Next Steps
Visit www.niaid.nih.gov/factsheets/plague.htm to read more about plague.