Man near Santa Fe infected with plague

New Mexico’s Department of Health is conducting an environmental investigation after the discovery of this year’s first case of a human contracting plague.

Health officials say a 63-year-old Santa Fe county man is currently hospitalized with the bacterial disease. Health officials are looking in the man’s home for ongoing risks and to ensure the health of his immediate family and neighbors. They are going door-to-door near the man’s home to inform others about the plague and to educate them on reducing their risk.

So far, ten dogs and five cats have been reported to have plague in New Mexico this year. Bites of infected fleas, and direct contact with infected animals such as rodents, wildlife and pets are what generally transmit plague to humans.