First Bubonic Plague Death in New Mexico Since 2020

State health officials launch outreach and risk assessment in Lincoln County following the first human case since 2021.

A New Mexico man has died from the bubonic plague, marking the state's first human case since 2021 and the first death since 2020.
The New Mexico Department of Health is conducting outreach and an environmental assessment in Lincoln County to identify and mitigate ongoing risks.
Symptoms of the bubonic plague include sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, weakness, and painful swelling of lymph nodes.
The disease can be transmitted to humans through bites of infected fleas, direct contact with infected animals, or inhalation of contaminated materials.
Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial; without prompt intervention, the disease can lead to serious illness or death.