A resident of the South Lake Tahoe area in California has been diagnosed with plague after camping in a rural zone, according to health authorities in El Dorado County. The case has raised alarms because plague, a disease that caused devastating epidemics in the past, is now extremely rare in humans, although it still exists in wild animals and can be transmitted through infected fleas. Initial investigations suggest that the patient may have contracted the infection through the bite of a flea carrying the bacterium 

Yersinia pestis, which is commonly found in rodents such as squirrels and marmots that inhabit forested and mountainous areas. The affected resident received immediate medical attention and, thanks to early diagnosis, was treated with antibiotics, which greatly increases the chances of a full recovery.

Health authorities emphasized that, although human cases are very uncommon in the United States, plague continues to be considered a risk in certain areas of the western region of the country, including California, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona. In fact, several animals in the area have already tested positive this year, reinforcing the need to take extra precautions.

Residents were advised to avoid direct contact with wild rodents, to stay away from burrows, and to keep pets under control to prevent them from approaching risky areas. It was also recommended to use insect repellents during outdoor activities and to regularly check dogs and cats to reduce the risk of exposure to infected fleas. Although the news has caused concern among local residents, experts stressed that plague can be treated effectively with antibiotics

if diagnosed in time, and that health systems are prepared to respond quickly to any suspected case. For local authorities, the key message is prevention and vigilance, without causing panic, reminding people that human cases remain exceptional but must be taken seriously.