Prevention

A previously used plague vaccine is no longer manufactured. It was only effective against the bubonic form of the illness. A new vaccine is under development.

• In general, to prevent contracting plague, people should avoid contact with wild animals. Controlling rat and flea populations where plague is found is also important.
• Anyone who has had contact with the plague-infected patient (including hospital and rescue personnel) should be watched carefully for symptoms. At the first sign of illness (such as fever or swollen glands), doctors will begin antibiotic treatment.
• Pets and people who have come into contact with a plague-infected person should be given antibiotics as a preventive measure.