A human case of plague has been identified in Montezuma County. The contraction is said to have taken place on private property. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is collaborating with the Montezuma County Public Health Department to study and monitor the plague caused by the Yersinia Pestis Bacteria. Plague is caused by the Yersinia pestis bacteria.  It is transmitted to humans through infected flea bites or direct contact with infected animals. Some plague carriers include ground squirrels, chipmunks, rock squirrels, and wood rats. Prairie dogs are known to be highly infectious. Contacting the local public health agency … Continue reading Montezuma County’s Plague Alert: A Call to Vigilance and Precaution