Bacterial zoonosis
Plague
A bacterial infection that can affect lymph nodes, lungs or the bloodstream. Early antibiotics can be lifesaving.
Explore Plague on the monitor · Reviewed 2026-10-06
How it spreads
Infected flea bites or animal tissues; pneumonic plague can spread through infectious respiratory particles.
Symptoms and context
Sudden fever and weakness; painful swollen lymph nodes, cough or breathing difficulty depending on the form.
Prevention
Avoid flea bites and handling sick or dead animals; follow local public health advice.
When to seek advice
Seek urgent care for fever after relevant flea, animal or patient exposure; mention that exposure.
On the desk
- Irkutsk plague allegation was not confirmed — evidence reviewed 2026-10-06
Read the original guidance
This is general information. Current local health guidance and professional assessment take priority for individual decisions.