A human case of bubonic plague in the UK has been confirmed as a false alarm following a mix-up with official data, according to reports from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The situation arose from a lab report released for the week ending March 13, 2025, which inaccurately indicated a human infection. UKHSA officials later attributed the confusion to a lab misallocation and are currently working to correct the data.
The bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is notorious for its historical impact, particularly during the Black Death in the 14th century, which claimed an estimated 200 million lives and wiped out about 60 percent of Europe’s population. Despite its grim history, the disease is not entirely eradicated and continues to be monitored as a potential threat. In fact, it remains on the priority pathogens list of infectious diseases that could pose a risk for future pandemics.
Professor Paul Hunter, an expert in medicine at the University of East Anglia, emphasized that while the reported case was a false alarm, bubonic plague is still a concern. He stated, "We do see occasional cases. Most are due to people coming into close contact with wild rodents while overseas. Usually, it's because people don't realize that even cute-looking wild animals should be kept at arm's length. The disease is spread by fleas." This highlights the importance of awareness around zoonotic diseases, especially for those traveling in areas where these animals are common.
The pathways for transmission of the plague include flea bites, direct contact with infected animals, and inhalation of infected respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically involve fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes, known as 'buboes'. If untreated, the infection can escalate to septicemic or pneumonic plague, both of which are significantly more lethal. Untreated cases can remain fatal in up to 90 percent of patients within a week.
While the last notable outbreak of bubonic plague in the UK occurred in Suffolk in 1918, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are between 1,000 and 2,000 cases globally each year. Recent years have seen cases reported in the United States, Peru, China, Bolivia, Uganda, Tanzania, and Russia. For instance, a case was documented in Oregon last year, likely transmitted from a sick pet cat.
The recent false alarm has not deterred scientists from taking the threat seriously. In fact, researchers who were involved in developing the COVID-19 vaccine are now focusing on creating a vaccine for bubonic plague. This initiative reflects a growing concern that the infection could re-emerge and potentially lead to catastrophic consequences.
Despite the historical weight of the plague, modern medicine has made it highly treatable with antibiotics. However, the urgency for developing a vaccine underscores the unpredictability of infectious diseases and the need for preparedness against potential outbreaks. As health officials continue to monitor the situation, the public is reminded to stay informed and vigilant, particularly when traveling to areas where the risk of exposure to the plague remains.
In summary, while the recent report of a human case of bubonic plague has been debunked, it serves as a reminder of the disease's presence in the world today. With ongoing research and public health efforts, authorities aim to prevent any future outbreaks and safeguard public health against this ancient yet persistent threat.
