A large, swollen, red lymph node (bubo) in the armpit (axillary) of a person with bubonic plague. Symptoms of the plague are severe and include a general weak and achy feeling, headache, shaking chills, fever, and pain and swelling in affected regional lymph nodes (buboes).
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Bubonic Plague  Information for adults

Picture of Bubonic Plague: A large, swollen, red lymph node (bubo) in the armpit (axillary) of a person with bubonic plague. Symptoms of the plague are severe and include a general weak and achy feeling, headache, shaking chills, fever, and pain and swelling in affected regional lymph nodes (buboes). Divider line
A large, swollen, red lymph node (bubo) in the armpit (axillary) of a person with bubonic plague. Symptoms of the plague are severe and include a general weak and achy feeling, headache, shaking chills, fever, and pain and swelling in affected regional lymph nodes (buboes).
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Who's At Risk
Bubonic plague is usually passed to humans from the bite of an infected rat flea, which almost always infests rats, though other small rodents and even some domestic animals, such as cats and dogs, have been infected. In the United States, rat fleas are found in the Southwestern states. Other countries around the world with rat fleas and bubonic plague include India, Vietnam, parts of Africa, and the former Soviet Union. People at risk for acquiring bubonic plague include:
  • Travelers to the above endemic areas, particularly if residing in rat-infested areas.
  • Hikers, particularly in endemic areas.
  • Hunters, particularly in endemic areas.
  • Animal slaughterhouse workers.
  • People who live in rat-infested areas.
  • Exotic pet owners who handle rats.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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