- Plague Transmission - Fleas transmit plague to humans.
- Distribution - Distribution.
- History of Plgue - Learn more about plague's remarkable place in history.
Plague is a disease that affects humans and other mammals. It is caused by the bacterium, Yersinia pestis. Humans usually get plague after being bitten by a rodent flea that is carrying the plague bacterium or by handling an animal infected with plague. Plague is infamous for killing millions of people in Europe during the Middle Ages. Today, modern antibiotics are effective in treating plague. Without prompt treatment, the disease can cause serious illness or death. Presently, human plague infections continue to occur in the western United States, but significantly more cases occur in parts of Africa and Asia.
Plague Disease Topics
Ecology and Transmission
How plague is transmitted...
Diagnosis and Treatment
What to expect from your physician...
For Healthcare Professionals
Answers for clinicians, public health officials, and veterinarians...
History of Plague
Plague –– past and present...
Symptoms
Important signs and symptoms of plague...
Maps and Statistics
Distribution of plague, number of cases and more...
Prevention and Control
Tips for people living in areas with plague...
Resources
Scientific references and other links...
Plague FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common inquiries...
Contact Us:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Bacterial Diseases Branch
Foothills Campus
Fort Collins, CO 80521 - 800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636)
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Closed Holidays - cdcinfo@cdc.gov