News Summary
Coconino County health officials have confirmed the first plague-related death in the area since 2007. An unidentified individual succumbed to pneumonic plague after being admitted to Flagstaff Medical Center. Rapid testing identified Yersinia pestis, the bacterium causing the plague. Health authorities emphasize the importance of recognizing symptoms early and urge caution when interacting with wildlife. This incident raises awareness about the seriousness of plague and the need for public education on prevention and treatment.
Arizona — An unidentified individual in Coconino County has succumbed to pneumonic plague, according to local health authorities. This tragic incident is noted as the first plague-related death in the county since 2007, when another case arose from contact with an infected animal.
The patient presented at Flagstaff Medical Center’s Emergency Department and passed away on the same day of arrival. The exact date of death has not been publicly confirmed. Northern Arizona Healthcare disclosed that “appropriate initial management” was administered alongside “attempts to provide life-saving resuscitation,” but despite these efforts, the individual did not survive.
Upon examination, rapid diagnostic testing led to the preliminary identification of Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for causing the plague. The Coconino County Health and Human Services officially confirmed the cause of death on July 11, 2025, emphasizing the seriousness of this public health event.
Pneumonic Plague Overview
Pneumonic plague is a severe form of infection that primarily affects the lungs and can be transmitted between individuals through airborne droplets. Typical symptoms include severe pneumonia, shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest pain. It is vital to recognize these signs promptly, as treatment with antibiotics is most effective when started early.
Plague Cases in the United States
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report an average of seven human cases of plague each year in the United States, predominantly within rural areas of the western regions. The disease is classified into three main forms: bubonic, pneumonic, and septicemic, with pneumonic being unique in its ability to spread from person to person.
Historically, the last documented instance of human-to-human transmission occurred in Los Angeles in 1924, establishing that the likelihood of such transmission today remains low. Public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, and the hospital is collaborating with Coconino County Health and Human Services and the Arizona Department of Health Services to investigate this recent case further.
Precautionary Measures
Health authorities are emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare providers if individuals experience symptoms suggestive of contagious diseases. Additionally, they recommend wearing masks in emergency settings to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
The Coconino County Health Department has also advised the public to avoid contact with wild animals, refrain from handling sick or deceased animals, and maintain a rodent-proof environment to prevent potential plague infection. Recently, there were reports of a prairie dog die-off in the Townsend Winona area, but officials clarified that this recent case is unrelated to that incident.
Prevention and Treatment
Individuals exposed to the plague typically experience symptoms within two to six days. Fortunately, while there is currently no vaccine for plague available in the U.S., several potential candidates are under research and development. It is essential to remain informed and vigilant, as timely intervention can mean the difference between life and death.
The Coconino County case has raised awareness about this rare but serious disease, underscoring the importance of public education regarding the signs and symptoms of plague, as well as the necessary steps to take in the event of potential exposure.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The New York Times
- CNN
- Smithsonian Magazine
- Wikipedia: Pneumonic Plague
- Google Search: Pneumonic Plague
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
