Pneumonic plague

Pneumonic plague is a severe lung infection caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Symptoms include fever, headache, shortness of breath, chest pain, and cough. They typically start about three to seven days after exposure. It is one of three forms of plague, the other two being septicemic plague and bubonic plague.

Causes

The cause of pneumonic plague is Yersinia pestis, a gram-negative bacterium. The bacteria are usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected flea. However, pneumonic plague can also be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pneumonic plague typically begin within a few days of exposure to the bacteria. They include fever, headache, weakness, and rapidly developing pneumonia with shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, and sometimes bloody or watery sputum.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pneumonic plague can be challenging due to its rarity and the commonality of its symptoms with other conditions. However, it can be confirmed through laboratory tests such as blood cultures or sputum cultures.

Treatment

Pneumonic plague is a serious illness and requires immediate medical attention. Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as streptomycin, gentamicin, or doxycycline. If left untreated, pneumonic plague can be fatal.

Prevention

Prevention of pneumonic plague involves avoiding contact with infected animals and taking precautions to prevent flea bites. In some cases, prophylactic antibiotics may be recommended.

See also

• Black Death
• Plague of Justinian
• Third plague pandemic

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  Yersinia pestis bacterium
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