- At least 124 dead
- Number of cases “is rising”
- More than 1,100 infected
- Fatality rates of between 30 and 100 per cent, if left untreated
There is currently an outbreak of both pneumonic and bubonic plague in Madagascar, according to The Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
The plague is an infectious disease that’s spread by a bacteria found in small animals and their fleas.
Humans can become infected from flea bites, unprotected contact with other infected humans, or by simply breathing near the infected.
Untreated plague can be deadly, so early treatment with antibiotics is vital, said the World Health Organization (WHO).
Plague symptoms include sudden fevers, head and body aches, vomiting and nausea.
Bubonic plague – the most common form of plague – can causes inflamed lymph nodes, making them tense and painful.
As the condition worsens, the lymph nodes can turn into pussy, open sores.
The bubonic plague is transmitted to humans by infected fleas.
Pneumonic plague is usually caused by bubonic plague spreading into the lungs.
It’s the most contagious form of the plague, and can be spread by coming into contact with respiratory droplets from infected humans.
Symptoms of pneumonic plague includes bloody or pussy saliva, chest pain and coughing. It can also lead to organ failure and shock.
Without treatment, patients could die within 18 hours.
Diagnosing the plague requires lab testing of either blood, sputum, or pus from an inflamed lymph node.
If the plague is found early, the condition can be treated with antibiotics and supportive therapy.
The WHO recommends protecting against flea bites to avoid becoming infected with the plague. It also suggests avoiding animal carcasses, and not touching anyone suspected of infection.
Meanwhile, Brits planning on travelling to Madagascar should ensure they have the correct travel insurance to stay protected, and have emergency funds accessible to cover any surprise medical costs.