What is pneumonic plague and how does it spread?
Summary
A worker at a Siberian plague research lab died, and the World Health Organization has asked Russia for more information. Pneumonic plague, a serious lung infection caused by bacteria, can spread through droplets from coughs and is treatable with antibiotics if caught early.Key Facts
- The World Health Organization is seeking details about the death of a Siberian plague lab worker.
- Pneumonic plague is a dangerous lung infection caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis.
- It is one of three types of plague; the others are bubonic (lymph nodes) and septicaemic (blood).
- Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
- The plague bacteria live in many animal species and can spread through flea bites or contact with infected animals.
- Pneumonic plague can spread from person to person through airborne droplets during close contact.
- Historically, pneumonic plague was the main cause of the Black Death in the 14th century.
- The infection can be fatal if not treated quickly but responds well to antibiotics when caught early.
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