Squirrel Tests Positive For Plague In Lake Tahoe Area

LAKE TAHOE (CBS13) - A California ground squirrel in the Lake Tahoe area has tested positive for plague.

The dead squirrel was found at the Kiva picnic area next to the Tallac historic site in Lake Tahoe on August 17, according to a statement from the California Department of Public Health. The agency received the squirrel's positive test results on September 2. Warning signs have been posted in affected areas and individuals are advised to report any dead or sick rodents.

"Plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including higher-elevation areas of El Dorado County, so we need to be cautious around animals that can carry it," said Karen Bender, Supervisor with the El Dorado County Environmental Management Division.

Plague is an infectious bacterial disease that can be spread by squirrels, chipmunks and other wild rodents through their fleas. People can get the plague if they are bitten by an infected animal or through close contact.

Symptoms which usually appear within two weeks of being infected include: fever, nausea, weakness and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can be treated with antibiotics if detected early enough.

According to El Dorado health officials and CDPH, tips to prevent the plague include not feeding or touching wild rodents, wearing long pants tucked into boots, spraying bug repellent and keeping pets away from dead rodents.