What Is Pneumonic Plague?

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What is Pneumonic Plague? Plague is infectious disease that affects animals and humans. It is caused by the bacteria Yersinia Pestis, which are found in rodents and their fleas. Plague occurs in many areas of the world, including the United States. Background Plague is an infectious disease caused by Yersinia pestis, a naturally occurring bacterium found primarily in wild rodents. Plague has been the cause of 3 of the great pandemics of the modern era—in the mid-6th century, the mid-14th century (known as the Black Death), and the early 20th century. Three forms of naturally occurring plague infection exist: Pneumonic plague is the result of Y. pestis infection of the lungs. Primary pneumonic plague results from inhalation of Y. pestis bacteria and would be the expected form of disease following an aerosol attack with Y. pestis. Secondary pneumonic plague can occur if bubonic or septicemic plague goes untreated and the plague bacteria are allowed to spread to the lungs. Bubonic plague is the most common form of naturally occurring plague and is typically acquired through the bite of an infected flea. Bubonic plague is characterized primarily by swollen, tender lymph nodes (called buboes). Septicemic plague is the result of plague bacteria multiplying in the blood and disseminating throughout the body. Septicemic plague usually occurs as a result of untreated bubonic or pneumonic plague. Understanding Yersinia Pestis. Yersinia Pestis are gram – negative bacteria. They are easily destroyed by sunlight and drying. Even so, when released into air, the bacteria will survive for up to one hour, although this could vary, depending on conditions. The Bacteria can grow with or without oxygen (A quality called facultative anaerobic.) Animals that might carry Yersinia Pestis. Yersinia Pestis is found most commonly in rats, but occasionally in other animals such

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