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Medical and scientific investigators in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have reported an oubreak of plague in Aru Health Zone, Ituri Province via ProMED-mail. A die-off of guinea pigs and other rodents was noticed on 25 September 2019 and four people belonging to one family were subsequently found to have plague. One family member, a 15 year old boy, died of his illness on 26 September.
Plague is rare in international travellers.
No vaccine is available for plague. The most effective form of prevention is to avoid exposure to infected people or animals. If there is a possibility that a traveller has been exposed to plague, it is important to seek prompt medical attention as soon as possible. Progression of the disease may be prevented with appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Anyone experiencing rapidly progressing fever, chills, headache, weakness, respiratory symptoms, chest pain or swollen lymph nodes should seek prompt medical attention.
For further information see Plague.