Plague is primarily spread through the bite of infected fleas. However, it can also spread through other means, including contact with infected animals, inhalation of infectious droplets, and laboratory exposure.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Flea Bites: This is the most common method of transmission. Fleas, typically those that infest rodents, become infected with the plague bacteria Yersinia pestis. When these fleas bite humans, they can transmit the bacteria.
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Contact with Infected Animals: Handling infected animals, especially rodents like rats, mice, and squirrels, as well as rabbits and domestic cats, can lead to plague transmission. The bacteria can enter through breaks in the skin.
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Inhalation of Infectious Droplets: People with pneumonic plague (a lung infection caused by the plague bacteria) can spread the disease by coughing droplets containing the bacteria into the air. If someone inhales these droplets, they can become infected. Household pets with plague can also spread the disease through respiratory droplets.
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Laboratory Exposure: Accidental exposure to Yersinia pestis in a laboratory setting can also lead to infection.
In summary, the plague spreads through:
- Bites from infected fleas.
- Direct contact with infected animals.
- Inhaling infectious droplets (primarily from pneumonic plague patients or infected pets).
- Laboratory accidents.
