For those on the West Coast, no place is more magical for a vacation in nature than Lake Tahoe. However, if you’re planning a visit for your summer vacation, you might want to think twice…or at least consult your doctor first. That’s because researchers recently discovered the presence of bubonic plague nearby.
During routine testing of the rodent population near Lake Tahoe, a flea pulled from a yellow-pine chipmunk tested positive for the presence of bubonic plague.
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While this took place in May, the results were only recently confirmed by state officials. However, further testing has been scheduled to determine exactly how this chipmunk came to carry the plague.
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Bubonic plague is a deadly bacterial infection spread by chipmunks, squirrels, and other rodents. It’s possible for humans to contract the disease when they’re bitten by bugs that have come into contact with infected rodents.
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Symptoms include fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. These signs usually show up within two weeks of initial contact and can turn deadly if not treated swiftly with antibiotics.
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This doesn’t mean you need to cancel your trip to Lake Tahoe this summer, but it does mean you should stay up to date. Risking the plague for a nice vacation just isn’t worth it.
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(via CBS)
I think I’ll just stick to city life this summer. Nature is honestly too scary.
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