New Mexico reports woman died from the plague

Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE -- New Mexico reported its first death from the plague in 12 years Friday.

The state Department of Health confirmed a Bernalillo County woman died from septicemic plague early last week. The agency does not release details on plague victims.

Plague, a bacterial disease, is generally transmitted to humans by the bites of infected fleas but also can be transmitted by direct contact with infected animals - rodents, wildlife and pets.

The septicemic form occurs when the bacteria multiply in the blood. It does not spread from person to person, said the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

New Mexico reported four human plague cases last year. There were no human cases in the state in 2004.

Plague activity increased last year in Bernalillo County and other areas of north-central New Mexico, a trend that appears to be continuing this year, said Dr. Paul Ettestad, public health veterinarian for the Department of Health.

Source Associated Press