A South Lake Tahoe resident is currently recovering from a confirmed case of the plague, prompting local health officials to issue preventative guidance. This rare but serious bacterial infection, highlighting potential Tahoe Plague Risk, serves as a reminder of the presence of plague in higher elevation areas of California. El Dorado County public health officials believe the individual contracted the disease from an infected flea bite while camping in the South Lake Tahoe area.
Understanding the Plague
Plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which is typically transmitted to humans through the bites of fleas that have previously fed on infected wild rodents. Common carriers include squirrels and chipmunks. Pets can also play a role in spreading the disease by bringing infected fleas into homes. According to El Dorado County public health officials, plague is naturally occurring in higher elevation regions, making vigilance and preventative measures crucial.
Transmission and Symptoms
The primary mode of transmission is through infected flea bites. Symptoms of plague typically manifest within two weeks of exposure. These symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Swollen lymph nodes
Early detection is critical because plague can be effectively treated with antibiotics. If you experience any of these symptoms after spending time outdoors in areas known to harbor plague, seek medical attention immediately.
El Dorado County Plague Surveillance
El Dorado County actively monitors the presence of plague in its rodent populations. From 2021 to 2024, surveillance efforts identified 41 rodents with evidence of plague exposure. In 2025, four additional rodents tested positive for the bacteria in the Tahoe Basin, according to county records. This ongoing surveillance helps public health officials assess the risk and implement appropriate control measures. The current human case is the first reported in El Dorado County since 2020, emphasizing the sporadic nature of human infections despite the consistent presence of the bacteria in the environment.
Expert Recommendations and Prevention
Given the presence of plague in the region, public health officials recommend taking precautions to minimize the risk of exposure. These measures include:
- Avoid contact with wild rodents: Do not feed or handle squirrels, chipmunks, or other wild rodents.
- Control fleas on pets: Regularly treat pets with flea control products recommended by a veterinarian.
- Wear protective clothing: When hiking or camping, wear long pants and socks to reduce the risk of flea bites.
- Use insect repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothing and exposed skin.
- Eliminate rodent habitats: Clear brush, rock piles, and other potential rodent habitats around homes and campsites.
These recommendations align with guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health and are crucial for reducing the risk of contracting plague in endemic areas.
Media Coverage and Public Awareness
News of the South Lake Tahoe resident contracting plague has been widely reported by various media outlets. KKOH-AM, CBS News (CBS Sacramento), TahoeDailyTribune.com, ABC10, and Newsweek have all covered the story, helping to raise public awareness about the risk. YouTube channels associated with news outlets and other general news sources have also disseminated information about the case and preventative measures. This widespread coverage underscores the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions, especially for individuals who live in or visit areas where plague is present.
Conclusion
The recent plague case in South Lake Tahoe serves as an important reminder of the ongoing risk posed by this bacterial disease. By understanding the transmission routes, recognizing the symptoms, and taking preventative measures, residents and visitors can significantly reduce their risk of infection. Staying informed through reliable news sources and following the recommendations of public health officials are key to protecting oneself and the community from plague. The El Dorado County health officials emphasize that while rare, plague is treatable if caught early.
