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The plague is a disease that is caused by the bacterium, Yersinia Pestis. This disease usually affects humans, but can also affect other mammals.

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Yersinia Pestis is usually acquired through the bite of a rodent fly that is carrying the plague bacterium. A human can also acquire the disease from direct contact with tissues and fluids from an animal that is sick, or that has died, with the disease.

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Risk factors for plague include living in rural areas, near animals such as rodents, or in houses where sanitation is poor. While anyone can develop Yersinia Pestis, people who frequently deal with animals, such as veterinarians, are at higher risk for infection with Yersinia Pestis.

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- High Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Rapid breathing
- Severe shortness of breath and cough that might bring up blood.
Without proper treatment, the disease can quickly lead to death.

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The best way to prevent developing Yersinia Pestis is to remove brush, rock piles, cluttered fireword, and possible rodent food supplies. Make your home and buildings rodent-proof. Most definitely wear gloves if handling potentially infected animals to prevent contact between skin and the plague bacteria.

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When your doctor suspects that a person has developed the plague, they are usually admitted into the hospital where strong antibiotics are given.