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What is pneumonic plague and how does it spread?
Key Takeaways
- Pneumonic plague is the most virulent form of the disease.
- It spreads via respiratory droplets or infected animal contact.
- The bacterium Yersinia pestis persists in global rodent populations.
- Antibiotics are effective if the disease is caught early.
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Pneumonic plague is a serious respiratory infection that can spread through human-to-human contact via infected droplets. While rare, it remains a global concern due to its historical lethality and persistence in animal reservoirs.
Researchers study the bacterium in controlled laboratory settings to develop vaccines and diagnostics. Experts emphasize that while the idea of plague research is alarming, it is essential for monitoring antibiotic resistance and preventing future outbreaks.
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