Northern Arizona resident dies from plague
[July 12, 2025]
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — A resident of northern Arizona has died from
pneumonic plague, health officials said Friday.
Plague is rare to humans, with on average about seven cases reported
annually in the U.S., most of them in the western states, according to
federal health officials.
The death in Coconino County, which includes Flagstaff, was the first
recorded death from pneumonic plague since 2007, local officials said.
Further details including the identify of the victim were not released.
Plague is a bacterial infection known for killing tens of millions in
14th century Europe. Today, it’s easily treated with antibiotics.
The bubonic plague is the most common form of the bacterial infection,
which spreads naturally among rodents like prairie dogs and rats.
There are two other forms: septicemic plague that spreads through the
whole body, and pneumonic plague that infects the lungs.
Pneumonic plague is the most deadly and easiest to spread.
The bacteria is transmitted through the bites of infected fleas that can
spread it between rodents, pets and humans.
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A sign warning of bubonic plague is displayed at a parking lot near
the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge in Commerce City, Colo.,
Aug. 10, 2019. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)
 People can also get plague through
touching infected bodily fluids. Health experts recommend taking
extra care when handling dead or sick animals.
Most cases happen in rural areas of northern New Mexico, northern
Arizona, southern Colorado, California, southern Oregon and far
western Nevada, according to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention.
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