Plague, Fleas and Pets Around Albuquerque
Plague sounds like history, but it's still around in New Mexico's wild rodents. The City of Albuquerque says about half of U.S. cases each year happen in New Mexico. Fleas pass it among rodents, and people and pets can get it from flea bites or from handling an infected animal.
Human cases are rare. Still, a few habits lower the odds, especially in certain parts of the county.
Where it shows up locally
In Bernalillo County, the city says cases have come from the East Mountains, the western Sandia foothills and North Albuquerque Acres. Rodents involved include rock squirrels, prairie dogs, pack rats, chipmunks and mice. If you live in the foothills or the East Mountains, these steps matter most.
Pets
The city notes cats are especially susceptible. Its advice for pets:
- Use a proper flea control product on dogs and cats
- Don't let pets roam and hunt
- Don't let pets that roam sleep in your bed
- Get a sick pet to the vet quickly
Around the house
Reduce the places rodents live near your home. The city recommends keeping woodpiles off the ground, clearing brush and rock piles, sealing pet and livestock food, and rodent-proofing homes and sheds. A provider can handle the sealing: see rodent exclusion and pack rat control.
If you find a rodent or rabbit that died with no visible injury in the foothills, East Mountains or North Albuquerque Acres, call 311 and don't touch it. The city may collect it for testing.
For people
The Department of Game and Fish's plague advice adds insect repellent with DEET on skin or permethrin on clothing when you're out in rodent country, and a quick trip to the doctor for a sudden high fever or a painful swollen lymph node, especially after contact with rodents or fleas.
Also asked
Is plague curable?
The City of Albuquerque says plague is curable if it's diagnosed and treated promptly.