Idaho boy diagnosed with plague

For just the fifth time since 1940, an Idaho resident has been diagnosed with the plague.

The boy, a resident of Elmore County, is currently recovering. His diagnosis was the first in the state since 1992.

The plague killed some 60 percent of Europeans during the 1300’s, but it is no longer as deadly, with a mortality rate of around 10%.

It is most commonly transmitted through fleas, which contract the disease from rodents.

Jeff Doerr, an epidemiologist at Southeastern Idaho Public Health, says that while the disease is still very serious, it doesn’t pose the threat it once did, but it is still something to avoid.

You are advised to stay away from rodents and to wear insect repellent.