Attention RV Campers: A recent death from pneumonic plague in Coconino County, Arizona, the first since 2007, has raised concerns for those camping in the region. This rare but serious bacterial infection, caused by Yersinia pestis, can be transmitted through flea bites or contact with infected animals.
As RV campers often explore rural areas where the plague is more prevalent, it’s critical to take precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your pets while enjoying Arizona’s beautiful landscapes.
What Happened?
On July 11, 2025, Coconino County Health and Human Services confirmed that a resident of northern Arizona died from pneumonic plague, a severe lung infection caused by Yersinia pestis. The individual sought treatment at Flagstaff Medical Center but passed away the same day despite medical efforts. This marks the first fatal case of pneumonic plague in the county in nearly two decades.
While officials have stated that this case is not linked to a recent prairie dog die-off in the Townsend-Winona area northeast of Flagstaff, the presence of plague in the region is a reminder of the risks in rural camping areas.
Why Should RV Campers Be Concerned?
Plague is rare, with an average of seven human cases reported annually in the U.S., primarily in western states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. However, RV campers are at higher risk because:
- Rural Camping Locations: Plague is endemic in rural areas of northern Arizona, particularly where rodents like prairie dogs and squirrels carry infected fleas.
- Pet Exposure: Dogs and especially cats can contract plague by interacting with infected rodents or fleas and may bring fleas back to your RV.
- Pneumonic Plague’s Severity: Unlike bubonic plague, pneumonic plague affects the lungs and can spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets, though this is extremely rare (the last U.S. case was in 1924). It’s the most dangerous form and requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of pneumonic plague typically appear within 1–8 days of exposure and include:
- Fever and chills
- Headache and weakness
- Rapidly developing pneumonia with shortness of breath, chest pain, and cough
- Sometimes bloody or watery mucus
If you or anyone in your group experiences these symptoms after camping in a plague-endemic area, contact a healthcare provider immediately and inform them of possible exposure to rodents or fleas. Early antibiotic treatment is highly effective, but delays can be life-threatening.
How to Stay Safe While RV Camping
To minimize your risk of plague exposure in northern Arizona and other western states, follow these precautions:
- Avoid Contact with Wild Animals:
- Do not touch, feed, or handle wild rodents, such as prairie dogs, squirrels, or rats, dead or alive.
- Be cautious around rodent burrows or nests, which may harbor infected fleas.
- Protect Against Fleas:
- Use insect repellent containing 20–30% DEET on exposed skin and clothing.
- Tuck pant cuffs into socks to prevent flea bites while hiking or exploring.
- Apply veterinarian-approved flea treatments to pets before and during your trip.
- Keep Pets Safe:
- Keep dogs on a leash and prevent them from investigating rodent burrows or dead animals.
- Cats are highly susceptible to plague and can transmit it to humans. Avoid letting cats roam freely, and monitor them for signs of illness.
- Choose Safe Campsites:
- Avoid camping near rodent burrows or areas with visible rodent activity.
- Clear brush, rock piles, or debris around your RV to reduce rodent habitats.
- Report Unusual Animal Activity:
- If you notice a sudden die-off of prairie dogs, rabbits, or other rodents near your campsite, report it to Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) at 928-679-8756 (Animal Services) or 928-679-8760 (Environmental Health).
- Maintain Hygiene:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling pets or any outdoor equipment that may have come into contact with rodents or fleas.
- Clean and disinfect your RV regularly to avoid attracting rodents.
No Need for Panic, But Stay Vigilant
Health officials emphasize that the risk of plague remains low, and there’s no need for widespread concern. Unlike the Black Death of the 14th century, modern antibiotics can effectively treat plague if caught early. However, as RV campers, you’re often in close proximity to nature, so staying informed and cautious is key.
The Arizona Public Health Association notes that pneumonic plague is not as contagious as diseases like COVID-19, and person-to-person transmission is extremely rare.
What to Do if You Suspect Exposure
If you believe you’ve been exposed to plague (e.g., bitten by fleas, handled a sick or dead animal, or developed symptoms after camping), take these steps:
- Call your healthcare provider or a medical facility ahead of time to limit potential exposure to others.
- Seek treatment within 24 hours of symptom onset for the best outcomes.
- Inform your doctor about your recent camping activities and possible exposure to rodents or fleas.
Stay Informed
Coconino County officials are investigating the source of this plague case and monitoring for additional risks. Stay updated by checking local health advisories, especially if camping in northern Arizona. For more information, visit the CDC Plague Information Page or contact Coconino County Health and Human Services.
Our Thoughts: We extend our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. By taking these simple precautions, RV campers can continue to safely enjoy Arizona’s stunning outdoors. Stay vigilant, protect your pets, and act quickly if symptoms arise. Safe travels!