Jun 2, 2006 10:32 pm US/Mountain
Bubonic Plague Detected In Family Pet
TRINIDAD, Colo. (AP) ―
Medical authorities have confirmed a case of bubonic plague detected in a family pet 10 miles west of Trinidad.
The cat developed a large abscess on its jaw in May. After examining the animal, the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Fort Collins confirmed the cat had contracted the plague, and it was euthanized.
Dr. William Aaroe of Fisher's Peak Veterinary Clinic said increased moisture in the area likely sparked a rise in rodent population. The medieval disease lives on in rodents such as rats, squirrels and rabbits, and the bacteria spreads through fleas. A rapid die-off of rodents is an indication the plague is spreading and should be reported to local health authorities.
Aaroe said in humans, early signs of the plague include the sudden onset of high fever, muscle pain, malaise, nausea, vomiting and enlarged, painful lymph glands.
Trinidad is located along Interstate 25, about 130 miles south of Colorado Springs.
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