The Black Death, or plague, is one of the most infamous diseases in human history. It caused huge loss of life, especially during its second pandemic in the 14th century. Cases of plague still crop up worldwide, though nowhere near the extent they used to.
Recent scientific inquiry has unveiled specific details about the Black Death’s possible origins. Additionally, an organism has been identified as a possible overlooked plague vector. These insights could alter how scientists understand the Black Death’s past and present.
What Does New Research Show About the Origins of Black Death?
Recent research used microbial gene studies to clarify the Black Death’s origins. Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes plague, appeared in samples from 1338-1339. Researchers discovered these samples in the ancient Kara-Djigach region, now modern-day North Kyrgyzstan.
Prior studies thought the plague began to spread over 100 years before the Black Death. This finding shows that, in fact, Y. pestis began spreading just before the second pandemic. During the 14th century, the Black Death went on to kill nearly 60% of people in Western Eurasia.
What Organism Is a Possible Overlooked Source of Black Death Infection?
New findings show human body lice may play an overlooked key role in Y. pestis transmission.
Body lice ingest more blood in a single feeding than fleas do. Furthermore, body lice feed more often than fleas. This raises their chances of catching Y. pestis, even with low bacterial levels in the host’s blood.
Body lice also lack certain immunity genes for controlling bacterial infections. This deficiency leads to the lice excreting virulent organisms more often.
Another factor is the itching caused by louse bites. Scratching creates small wounds that can serve as entry points for Y. pestis.
Human plague outbreaks during the Black Death peaked from late spring to early fall. This timing aligns with favorable climate conditions for rodent fleas. Body lice may play a major role in transmission during this period.
To What Extent Is Black Death a Threat Today?
Plague still causes infections in Eurasia, Africa, and the Americas. Each year, between one and two thousand cases emerge around the world. The United States has some transmission, with an average of seven annual cases. New Mexico, California, Arizona, and parts of Colorado, Oregon, and Nevada report infections.
From 1900 to 2012, there were up to 1,006 plague infections in the U.S., most of them bubonic.
Today, illness from Y. pestis is treatable using antibiotics. If not treated quickly, it can progress into the bloodstream and lungs. At this point, plague can lead to severe symptoms and death. In the United States, plague has a mortality rate of about 11%.
The United States regards plague as a potential bioweapon. Safeguards are in place if the government must respond to a deliberate release of Y. pestis.
What Measures Can Prevent Black Death Infection?
To prevent the spread of plague, rodent habitats require elimination. Removing and preventing rodent habitats near human areas can mitigate plague. Using protective gear when handling animals and applying insect repellent also helps. It’s crucial to monitor pets for fleas or signs of illness.
The Black Death has left behind a staggering number of human fatalities. Though its threat has lessened, researchers seek to improve plague prevention and treatment. New knowledge of its origins and spread may open new paths of study for this ancient disease.
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Logan Hamilton is a freelance writer for hire. He’s passionate about crafting crystal-clear, captivating, and credible content that elevates brands and establishes trust. When not writing, Logan can be found hiking, sticking his nose in bizarre books, or playing drums in a local rock band. Find him at loganjameshamilton.com.
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