Health officials Confirm Pets can Spread 'Bubonic Plague' after Squirrel Tests Positive - Details!

Alongside the on-going global coronavirus pandemic, some cases of the bubonic plague, also known as the Black Death have been detected. Recently, a sick squirrel with the disease was discovered and scientists now fear that humans can contract it from animals.

The bubonic plague which killed 200 million people across Europe, Asia, and Africa is caused by infected fleas. This bacterial infection can be fatal if left untreated. 

Southwest of Denver, in the town of Morrison, the public health officials are warning people after they found an infected squirrel. People can contract the disease from household animals if precautions are not taken, says Jefferson County Public Health.

Further, if an infected person coughs on someone, the disease spreads. The Colorado Department of Public health and Environment has reported that the number of cases have been increasing in the state.

They have also warned the general public to look out for flu-like symptoms, including sudden fever, headache, chills, nausea, swelling of lymph nodes, pain, and so on. The symptoms will develop within seven days of exposure to the bacteria.

The Public Health officers have warned that cats are especially vulnerable to this plague and can die if immediate medical care is not provided. However, the risk for dogs is less but they can carry the infected fleas which will cause the disease.

Officials suggest that people refrain from coming in contact with wild animals around their homes and also protect their pets against fleas to prevent the spread.