California resident catches the plague, likely from infected flea at Lake Tahoe, officials say

Main Idea: California health officials say a South Lake Tahoe resident caught plague, likely from an infected flea while camping, and is now recovering at home.

Key Points:

• The California Department of Health was notified of the case, and local officials said the person is getting medical care.
• Officials believe the infection came from a flea bite in the South Lake Tahoe area, and they are still investigating.
• Plague is spread by fleas that can pick up the bacteria from rodents such as squirrels and chipmunks, and pets can also bring infected fleas home.
• Health officials said plague is rare in people, but they warned campers and pet owners to avoid wild rodents and use precautions against fleas.