Southern California Campgrounds Closed After Discovery of Plague-Infected Squirrel

The discovery of a plague infected ground squirrel has led to the evacuation and shutdown of three campgrounds in Angeles National Forest for at least one week.

The ground squirrel was trapped on July 16, 2013 during a routine surveillance and was tested positive for plague. Following, this the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and U.S. Forestry Service officials have closed three campgrounds and have notified the campers at the site regarding the closure.

The three campgrounds that have been evacuated and closed include Twisted Arrow, Broken Blade and Pima Loops of the Table Mountain Campgrounds.

"Plague is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas, which is why we close affected campgrounds and recreational areas as a precaution while preventive measures are taken to control the flea population," Jonathan E. Fielding, M.D., M.P.H., Director of Public Health and Health Officer in a press release. "It is important for the public to know that there have only been four cases of human plague in Los Angeles County residents since 1984, none of which were fatal."

But the health officials are certain that none of the campers have been infected with the disease.

Bubonic Plague or black disease, was one of the most devastating pandemic in human history that killed nearly 25 million people in Europe during the Middle Ages, reports BBC.

Plague is transmitted through infected flea. Prior to this a plague positive squirrel was discovered in 2010 from the Los Alamos campgrounds in Gorman.

Symptoms of the disease include enlargement of the lymph nodes in the area of bite and quick onset of chills and fever. Delay in treatment can lead to infection of blood and lungs. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal

"Protection with an insect repellent containing DEET is also recommended for persons visiting the Angeles National Forest and engaging in outside recreational activities in other areas of LA County," said Dr. Fielding. "Insect repellent can help protect people against fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks. Products containing DEET are not safe for use on pets."

Before opening the campgrounds to the public, the squirrel burrows in the area will be dusted for fleas and they will further conduct test the squirrels for the presence of the disease.