A resident of Coconino County, Arizona has died from pneumonic plague, marking the first such death in the state since 2007, local health authorities confirmed.
According to the Coconino County Health and Human Services Department, the individual is believed to have contracted the disease after coming into contact with a dead animal that was infected.
The plague infamously known as the “Black Death” once wiped out up to half of Europe’s population in the 14th century. Today, however, it is rare in humans and treatable with antibiotics.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports an average of 7 plague cases per year in the United States, typically in rural parts of western states. Coconino officials have reassured the public that the current risk remains low.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time,” said County Board Chair Patrice Horstman, noting that no further information will be released out of respect for the victim’s privacy.
