In a recent development, laboratory testing has confirmed the presence of plague in a domestic cat residing in Albany County. The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) announced this concerning discovery, prompting a series of precautions to ensure public safety.

The infected cat, a household pet with both indoor and outdoor access known for its rodent-hunting prowess, is currently undergoing treatment. Thankfully, no human cases have been linked to this specific situation in Albany County. However, it’s crucial to remember that the potential threat of plague persists.

Notably, WDH reported a human case of pneumonic plague in a Fremont County individual in September 2021. This case was associated with exposure to sick outdoor cats, highlighting the importance of vigilance and preventive measures.

According to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there has been an average of six human plague cases annually in the United States during the period of 2011-2020.

Dr. Emily Curren, the state public health veterinarian with WDH, emphasized the severity of plague, stating, “Plague is a serious bacterial infection that can be deadly for pets and people if not treated promptly with antibiotics.” She further explained that the disease can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or fleas from infected animals.

While rare in humans, plague is a natural occurrence in the western United States, particularly in areas where rodents and fleas become carriers. As such, a risk for plague is present across the state.

To protect against plague infection, health officials recommend the following precautions:

• Use insect repellent, especially when engaging in activities like camping, hiking, or outdoor work.
• Apply flea control products to indoor and outdoor pets, particularly those with outdoor access.
• Avoid unnecessary contact with rodents and areas with unexplained rodent die-offs or carcasses.
• Seek veterinary care promptly if pets exhibit symptoms.
• Prevent pets from sharing beds with humans.
• Reduce rodent habitats around homes and workplaces by clearing debris and potential food sources.
• When handling potentially infected or deceased animals, wear gloves and a mask to prevent direct contact with plague bacteria and inhalation.

Plague symptoms in pets may include swollen lymph glands, facial and neck swelling, fever, chills, lethargy, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. In humans, symptoms may include fever, swollen and tender lymph glands, extreme exhaustion, headache, chills, coughing, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you or your pet exhibit these symptoms, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.

For additional information about plague, visit the federal CDC’s website at http://www.cdc.gov/plague/. Albany County Public Health urges residents to stay informed and take precautions to safeguard their health and that of their pets.