"Fatal Bubonic Plague Case in New Mexico Raises Concerns"

A man in New Mexico has died from the bubonic plague, marking the state's first human death from the disease since 2020. The New Mexico Department of Health is conducting outreach and environmental assessments to determine any ongoing risk to the public. The plague, a bacterial disease spread through infected flea bites or contact with infected animals, can also affect pets. Health authorities recommend measures such as avoiding sick or dead rodents, using appropriate flea control products for pets, and seeking prompt medical attention for unexplained illnesses with sudden and severe fever. This incident follows a recent case in Oregon where a resident is believed to have contracted the plague from their symptomatic pet cat.