Health officials suspect an infected flea was responsible for spreading plague to a South Lake Tahoe resident, authorities announced on Aug. 19.
The victim tested positive for plague—the same disease responsible for the black death that killed 25 million Europeans in the Middle Ages.
Plague is now treatable with antibiotics if detected early.
The resident was camping in the South Lake Tahoe area and possibly bitten by the infected flea, according to El Dorado County, and is now recovering at home under the care of a medical professional.
Health officials are investigating the situation.
“Plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including higher elevation areas of El Dorado County,” said Kyle Fliflet, El Dorado County’s acting director of public health. “It’s important that individuals take precautions for themselves and their pets when outdoors, especially while walking, hiking, and or camping in areas where wild rodents are present.”…