BUBONIC PLAGUE: THEN AND NOW
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The Bubonic Plague, also known as “The
Black Death”, was one of the most catastrophic diseases in history. This disease originated in China in the 1800’s
and lasted until 1959. “Black Death” is known to have spread to Europe killing 25 million people. It is believed to have caused
75 million deaths worldwide. The illness eradicated entire cities, leaving
no living souls. Corpses filled the streets. Mortality rates were high and occurred
rapidly. Historians believe that due to
the high mortality rates, those living were forced to develop new ways in which
to survive thus advancing technologically, economically and socially. These
advancements led to the Renaissance of the 14th Century.
CAUSES
Plagues are caused by the bacteria,
Yesenia pestis. The bacteria infects
small rodents such as rats and is transmitted to humans through the bite of
infected fleas. The Plague is categorized by the area in which the bacteria has
afflicted. In the Bubonic Plague, the buboes (the lymph nodes), of the neck armpits
and groin are affected. They become
inflamed to about the size of an egg.
BIOLOGICAL WARFARE
The Black Death was used as a weapon during the Cold War
(1947-1991). Dead infected corpses were
thrown over enemy lines. Infected fleas
were dropped from airplanes and the bacteria was even used as an aerosol to destroy the enemy.
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BUBONIC PLAGUE TODAY
·
In 2003,
more than 200 human cases were reported resulting in 180 deaths mainly in
Africa.
·
2006
Congo, approximately 50 people died.
·
2017 WHO (World Health Organization) delivered
nearly 1.2 million doses of antibiotics
and $1.5 million dollars in emergency funds to fight the plague in
Madagascar, Africa where an outbreak has spread, infecting 100 people in just
weeks.
·
To date
there have been 231 cases and 33 deaths.
·
There are
reported cases in: China India, Vietnam
and Mongola.
·
High risk
areas include:
1. New Mexico
2. Arizona
3. California
4. Colorado
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
·
Swollen
glands, tender to touch
·
Sudden
onset of fever and chills
·
Fatigue
and malaise
·
Muscle
aches
Notify the doctor if
you develop any of the symptoms, are exposed to contaminated animals such rats,
squirrels, rabbits, dogs and chipmunks.
Campers, hikers and doctors such as veterinarians have a high risk of
exposure and are advised to seek medical attention should symptoms arise. The disease is treatable if caught
early. Antibiotics can be used to treat
the illness in its early stages.
References
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/plague/en/
http://www.history.com/topics/black-death
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/health-and-human-body/human-diseases/the-plague/
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