Arizona Patient Dies of Bubonic Plague in Flagstaff

A person in northern Arizona died from bubonic plague after arriving at Flagstaff Medical Center and passing away the same day, with infection by Yersinia pestis confirmed. This incident occurred alongside a prairie dog die-off northeast of Flagstaff, which is recognized as a sign of local plague activity. While bubonic plague is rare in the United States, an average of seven cases are reported each year, primarily in rural western regions, and early antibiotic treatment is effective. Health officials are investigating the case and emphasize the importance of seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms of contagious diseases. Public health departments are monitoring the situation to prevent additional cases. The event underscores the periodic presence of plague in northern Arizona.