Plague is alive and well in Kern County

[link to hisz.rsoe.hu]
"Plague is alive and well in Kern County, where, in fact, it is endemic, according to Director of Public Health Matt Constantine. That fact was brought home this week when a domesticated cat from Hart Flat tested positive for Y. pestis, the bacteria that causes plague. "Over all, we're concerned about the transmission of plague from a cat in this case to a human," said Constantine. Right now, however, there is no evidence of human infection, said Constantine. The cat belonged to a Hart Flat family. It apparently started showing signs of not being well and was taken to a veterinarian. The vet, in turn, contacted the Kern County Department of Public Health, which requested the state test the animal for plague. The test result was positive. Cats are believed to be the domestic species most susceptible to plague. It is not uncommon to find infected animals in elevations of 2,500 feet or higher, said Constantine. Anyone who fears they are being exposed to plague is urged to contact their health care provider."
[link to hisz.rsoe.hu]