Black plague in China, two people are being treated

According to CNN, there are two people in China being treated for plague.

This is the second time that the disease has been detected in the same region. It’s also the same thing that caused Black Death, known as one of the deadliest pandemics in history.

The patients from Inner Mongolia were diagnosed with pneumonic plague and are receiving treatment in Beijing’s Chaoyang District. Authorities have now created and implemented preventive measures.

Please note that last May, two Mongolians died from bubonic plague after eating raw kidney of a marmot. This is known as a local folk health remedy.

Since this has become global news and is apparently important to understand, it is only fitting that we share some facts about plague and how can protect ourselves.

What is plague?

Plague is an infectious disease that can become severe if not treated right away. It is caused by bacteria usually found in small mammals and their fleas. However, if the infection is detected and diagnosed early on, it can be cured with antibiotics and proper care.

Bubonic plague

The most common type of plague is known as bubonic plague and it affects the lymph nodes. This can be severe but it cannot be transmitted from human to human.

Pneumonic plague

Pneumonic plague is when it already reaches your lungs. This can cause pneumonia. Pneumonic plague is extremely alarming and can be deadly. The transmission could be person to person via droplets in the air.

How do you get plague?

Normally, humans get plague when they are bitten by a rodent flea that carries the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Similarly, animals such as cats and dogs that are infected can also infect their owners.

And just last year, it was suggested that body lice and human fleas can also spread the plague.

Is there a vaccine for plague?

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine yet against plague. What is available right now are antibiotics which can prevent complications and even death. But there is a specific strain of bubonic plague found in Madagascar which seems to be highly resistant to the antibiotic streptomycin. Streptomycin is the first-line treatment.

Researchers are still finding ways to combat plague through a vaccine.  As of the moment, we will provide you with tips on how you can protect yourself from it.

Protecting yourself and your family from plague

Clean your surroundings

First of all, it is necessary that you clean your surroundings. You should also make sure that there are no places for rodents to live in. Clean your home, garage, sheds, and even garden.

Report sick or dead animals

It is also important that you report sick or dead animals to the right people. That way, they can handle it properly. Doing it yourself can make you more susceptible to bacteria and infection. If you need to do it on your own, make sure that you wear protective gloves.

Use insect repellent containing DEET

Make it a habit to use insect repellent so you can prevent flea bites. For pet owners, don’t forget to cure or treat them for fleas.

Hopefully, with all the advancements in the medical industry, we’d soon get the right vaccine for plague.