How do people contract pneumonic plague?

Pneumonic plague is a bacterial lung infection caused by Yersinia pestis bacteria, the same bacterium that causes bubonic plague. People contract pneumonic plague by inhaling the bacteria from droplets that are coughed or sneezed into the air by an infected person or animal.

* Contact with infected droplets: This is the most common way people get pneumonic plague. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, they release droplets of fluid that contain the bacteria. If these droplets are inhaled by someone else, they can become infected.

* Contact with infected animals: People can also get pneumonic plague from contact with infected animals, such as rodents, rabbits, and squirrels. This can happen if a person is bitten or scratched by an infected animal, or if they come into contact with the animal's blood or other bodily fluids.

* Contact with contaminated objects: In rare cases, people can get pneumonic plague from contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing, bedding, or furniture. This is most likely to happen if the contaminated objects have been in contact with an infected person or animal.

Pneumonic plague is a serious illness and can be fatal if not treated promptly. If you think you may have been exposed to the bacteria, it is important to see a doctor right away.