First Bubonic Plague Death in New Mexico Since 2020

Overview

• 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.