Press Releases

For Immediate Release • June 4, 2009
Staff Contact: Dan Wolford, Open Space and Trails Manager, 303-774-4691
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Plague Warning Issued by Boulder County Public Health

Although not a serious health risk, the public is asked to be careful

JUNE 4, 2009 - After finding a squirrel that tested positive for bubonic plague near Centennial Park (1100 Lashley) in Longmont on June 1, Boulder County Public Health is asking the public to take precautions while outdoors.

Health officials give the following advice:

AVOID FLEAS! Protect pets with a flea treatment, and keep pets on a leash and out of wild rodent habitats.
STAY OUT of areas that wild rodents inhabit. If you enter areas with wild rodents, wear insect repellent and tuck pants cuffs into socks to prevent flea bites.
AVOID all contact with wild rodents, including squirrels; do not feed or handle them.
DO NOT TOUCH sick or dead animals.
PREVENT rodent infestations around your house: clear plants and materials away from outside walls, reduce access to food items, and set traps.
TREAT known rodent sites around your home with flea powder or a suitable insecticide.
SEE A PHYSICIAN if you become ill with a high fever and/or a swollen lymph node. Plague is a treatable illness.
SEE A VETERINARIAN if your pet becomes ill with a high fever and/or an abscess (open sore). Pets with plague can transmit the illness to humans.

Bubonic Plague is an infectious disease that affects wildlife. Wild rodents (fox squirrels, rock squirrels, wood rats, prairie dogs, etc.) in this area may be infected with plague. Remember to keep dogs on a leash as the disease may be transmitted to humans and pets through contact with infected animals or their fleas. Although the public should be vigilant, this is not considered a serious health threat - the disease is very treatable.

For More Information Please Call Boulder County Public Health’s Hotline Number

303-441-1460

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