Bernalillo County, N.M. — Health officials in New Mexico have confirmed a second case of plague in 2025, involving a 77-year-old man from Bernalillo County who has now recovered and been discharged from the hospital. The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) announced the case on September 24, making it the second human plague infection in the state this year. No fatalities have been reported.
Patient Recovery and Treatment
According to NMDOH, the elderly patient received prompt medical care and antibiotic treatment, which played a critical role in his recovery. He was hospitalized, treated, and has since returned home in good health.
This case follows the first confirmed human plague infection of 2025, reported in August, when a 43-year-old man from Valencia County contracted the disease while camping in Rio Arriba County. That patient also made a full recovery after hospitalization.
How Plague Spreads in New Mexico
Plague is a bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis. In New Mexico, it circulates naturally among wild rodents and their fleas. Humans can be exposed through:
- Bites from infected fleas
- Direct contact with sick or dead rodents
- Pets bringing fleas into the home
“The bacterium that causes plague can be found in wild rodents and their fleas throughout New Mexico,” explained Dr. Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for NMDOH. “Keeping pets on veterinarian-recommended flea control products helps protect both animals and people.”
Areas at Higher Risk
Bernalillo County has historically reported plague cases in areas close to rodent habitats, including the East Mountains, Western Sandia Foothills, and North Albuquerque Acres.
New Mexico accounts for nearly half of all plague cases in the U.S. each year, making it the most plague-endemic state. Outdoor activities such as camping and hiking increase exposure risks if precautions are not taken.
Historical and Recent Trends
- In 2015, New Mexico reported three human plague cases, including two in Bernalillo County, with one fatality.
- In 2024, cases were reported in Lincoln County.
- In 2025, infections have now been confirmed in both Valencia County and Bernalillo County, reflecting the widespread nature of plague circulation across the state.
Health experts also warn about septicemic plague, a form that accounts for up to 25% of cases in New Mexico and can be harder to diagnose because it does not cause the classic swollen lymph nodes seen in bubonic plague.
Public Health Response
The NMDOH and local environmental health agencies are:
- Monitoring wildlife for plague activity
- Investigating reports of unusual rodent die-offs
- Running public awareness campaigns in high-risk areas
The disease also has economic impacts, especially on outdoor recreation and tourism, which must balance promotion with public safety messaging.
How Residents Can Protect Themselves
Health officials recommend the following prevention strategies:
- Avoid contact with sick or dead rodents and their nests
- Keep properties clean by removing brush, woodpiles, and debris
- Store firewood and compost away from living areas
- Use flea prevention treatments on pets year-round
- Apply DEET insect repellent on skin and permethrin on clothing when outdoors
- Seek medical care immediately for sudden fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes after outdoor exposure
Bottom Line
While plague remains rare, New Mexico continues to report isolated cases nearly every year. Early medical treatment is highly effective, and simple prevention steps can greatly reduce risks.
