On August 19, 2025, a South Lake Tahoe resident received a shocking diagnosis: the plague — the same disease tied to the Black Death centuries ago. He is currently recovering at home with medical care after a camping trip in the stunning Sierra Nevada turned into an unexpectedly risky situation. It’s the first human plague case in El Dorado County since 2020, sparking fresh conversations about staying safe in the great outdoors.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, plague is an illness caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). It is classified as a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans. The disease typically spreads through bites from fleas that have previously fed on an infected animal.
Picture this: you’re camping, roasting marshmallows, and a flea from an infected critter decides you’re its next host. Health officials believe this camper likely encountered the bacterium somewhere in the wild, perhaps during a hike or a night under the stars.
The Tahoe Basin is no stranger to plague. Local health teams monitor wildlife closely, and since 2021, they’ve detected plague antibodies in 41 rodents. This is a clear proof that the bacterium is still present. In 2025 alone, four rodents also tested positive. This isn’t an isolated event: South Lake Tahoe reported a case in 2020, and Yosemite National Park had two in 2015. Thankfully, all recovered with timely treatment, but it’s a reminder that nature still carries risks.
Plague isn’t just a local concern: it’s a global one. In 2023, MedBound Times highlighted Madagascar, where plague remains a recurring challenge, with 200–400 cases reported annually during its seasonal peak from September to April.
No need to panic, plague is rare today and treatable with modern medicine. Still, it’s good to know the warning signs, especially if you spend time outdoors. Symptoms usually appear within two weeks of a flea bite and include:
Sudden fever and chills
Headaches and nausea
Extreme tiredness
Painful, swollen lymph nodes
The Center for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) has shared a health alert via LinkedIn, reminding Californians about plague risks and offering practical safety tips to stay protected.
The good news is, with guidance from the CDC, you can enjoy the great outdoors while keeping plague risks low by following a few simple tips:
Use insect repellent when camping, hiking, or working outdoors in areas where fleas may be present.
Products with DEET can be applied to skin and clothing, while permethrin-based products are effective for treating clothing (always follow label instructions).
(Rh/VK/MSM)
