A South Lake Tahoe resident has tested positive for plague, after it is believed they might have been bitten by an infected flea while camping.

The person is currently under the care of a medical professional and resting at home, according to a release from El Dorado County Environmental Management.

“Plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including higher elevation areas of El Dorado County, said Kyle Fliflet, El Dorado County’s Acting Director of Public Health. “It’s important that individuals take precautions for themselves and their pets when outdoors, especially while walking, hiking, and or camping in areas where wild rodents are present.”

Plague bacteria are most often transmitted by the bites of fleas that have acquired the bacteria from infected squirrels, chipmunks, and other wild rodents.

Dogs and cats may also bring plague-infected fleas into the home. People can contract plague when bitten by infected fleas.

Plague can be prevented by avoiding contact with wild rodents and by keeping pets away from rodent burrows.

Symptoms of plague include fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. The illness usually emerges within two weeks of exposure to an infected animal or flea and can be effectively treated with antibiotics if detected early.

Tips on how to prevent plague can be found below.

  • Do not feed squirrels, chipmunks or other wild rodents.
  • Never touch sick, injured or dead rodents.
  • Do not allow your pets to play with or pick up sick, injured or dead rodents.
  • Do not camp, sleep or rest near animal burrows or areas where dead rodents are observed.
  • Look for and heed posted warning signs.
  • Wear long pants tucked into boot tops and spray insect repellent containing DEET on socks and pant cuffs to reduce exposure to fleas.
  • Leave pets home if possible; otherwise keep pets on a leash. Do not allow pets to approach sick or dead rodents or explore rodent burrows.
  • Protect pets with flea control products.
  • Pet cats are highly susceptible to plague and can pose a direct threat to humans. Keep cats away from rodents. Consult a veterinarian if your cat becomes sick after being in contact with rodents.
  • If you get sick after being in an area where plague is known to occur, consult a physician and tell them you may have been exposed to plague.