New Mexico officials confirm the first case of plague of 2025 probably due to the campsite

The Ministry of New Mexico Health (NMDOH) reported the first case of human plague in 2025.

New Mexico health officials confirmed the infectious disease in a 43-year-old man from the County Valencia who was hospitalized and released since the August 25 press release.

The man recently spent time camping in the county of Rio Arba, where those responsible think he may have been exposed.

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The plague is known to “circulate among fauna” in the west of the United States, the release said.

Erin Phipps, veterinarian of state public health for NMDOH, commented in a statement that this case recalls the “serious threat which can be posed by this former disease.

The first case of the 2025 human plague was reported to the New Mexico. (istock)

“It also underlines the need for increased awareness of the community and to take action to prevent additional spread.”

The last case of human plague in New Mexico was recorded in a resident of the County of Lincoln in 2024.

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The plague is a bacterial disease of rodents, which is generally transmitted to humans by infected flea stings, according to NMDOH.

The disease can also be transmitted to humans by direct contact with infected animals, including fauna and even pets.

The plague is a disease of rodents which is transmitted to humans, generally insect bites. (istock)

Symptoms may include fever, chills, headaches and weakness and “painful swelling of the lymph node” in the areas of the body such as groin, armpits and necks.

In cats and dogs, symptoms may include fever, lethargy and loss of appetite, in addition to the swelling of the lymph nodes in the jaw.

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The plague can be treated with antibiotic drugs, which can “considerably reduce” the mortality rate in people and pets after a “rapid diagnosis”, reports Nmdoh.

The best ways to prevent infection through the plague are to avoid sick or dead rabbers and rabbits, cleaning areas where rodents can nest and store lots of hay, wood and compost away from the house.

The human plague is known to circulate in wildlife in the west of the United States, managers warn hikers and campers. (istock)

The use of an insectifuge during camping, hiking or outdoor work can also help prevent exposure to plague.

For those who have pets, Nmdoh recommends using a repellent for appropriate fleas and having sick pets examined by a veterinarian.

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Any unexpected disease involving sudden and serious fever should be checked by a doctor.

Fox News Digital contacted NMDOH to comment.