Septicemic plague
Septicemic Plague
Septicemic plague (/sɛptɪˈsiːmɪk pleɪg/), is a severe bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. It is one of the three main forms of plague, the other two being bubonic plague and pneumonic plague.
Etymology
The term "septicemic" is derived from the Greek words "septikos" meaning "putrefactive" and "haima" meaning "blood". The term "plague" comes from the Latin "plaga" meaning "stroke" or "wound".
Definition
Septicemic plague is a life-threatening infection that occurs when Yersinia pestis bacteria multiply in the bloodstream. Unlike other forms of plague, septicemic plague can occur without any noticeable swelling of the lymph nodes (buboes).
Symptoms
Symptoms of septicemic plague include fever, chills, extreme weakness, abdominal pain, shock, and possibly bleeding into the skin and other organs. Skin and other tissues may turn black and die, especially on fingers, toes, and the nose.
Transmission
Septicemic plague can be contracted from a flea bite, from handling an infected animal, or by inhaling droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person or animal. It can also develop from untreated bubonic or pneumonic plague.
Treatment
Treatment involves hospitalization, use of strong antibiotics, intravenous fluids, oxygen, and sometimes breathing support. People who have had contact with anyone infected with plague may need to be treated with antibiotics as well.
Prevention
Prevention of septicemic plague involves avoiding contact with wild rodents, their fleas, and possibly infected domestic animals. Use of insect repellent, wearing gloves when handling potentially infected animals, and rodent control in homes and around campsites can also help prevent infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Septicemic plague
- Wikipedia's article - Septicemic plague
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