Department of Health reports plague in Quay County

The New Mexico Department of Health last week reported a case of plague in a ranch dog in Quay County — the first case of plague in the state this year.

The dog has recovered from its illness with treatment from a veterinarian.

Plague is an infectious disease of animals and humans caused by the bacteria called Yersinia pestis. These bacteria usually are transmitted through the bite of an infected flea. Pets also can be exposed after eating an infected animal. Humans can contract plague by direct contact with the tissues of infected animals.

Plague symptoms in cats and dogs include fever, lethargy and loss of appetite. There may be a swelling in the lymph node under the jaw or on other parts of the body. Symptoms of plague in humans include sudden onset of fever, chills, headache and weakness. In most cases, there is a painful swelling of the lymph node in the groin, armpit or neck areas.

Physicians who suspect the plague should call (505) 827-0006.

In New Mexico, there were no cases of human plague in 2018 and four human plague cases in 2017; all four survived the illness. There were three cases of animal plague in 2018 in New Mexico and 28 animal plague cases in New Mexico in 2017.