Chipmunks Test Positive For Plague In South Lake Tahoe, California

 

CREDIT: a-z-animals.com

Officials have been closing certain areas on the south shore of Lake Tahoe after chipmunks were found testing positive for plague.

The Taylor Creek Visitor Center, Kiva Beach and their parking areas are among those closed while U.S. Forest Service conducted vector control treatments.

Carla Hass, spokeswoman for El Dorado County has revealed the chipmunks that tested positive came into no contact with people.

The El Dorado County Public Health states plague is naturally present in certain areas of California.

Anyone hiking or contributing in other outdoor activities should avoid contact with all animals.

The same should be done with pets.

Plague generally spreads by chipmunks, other rodents and their fleas. Symptoms can appear in humans within two weeks of exposure.

Symptoms can include fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes.

If caught soon enough, antibiotics can be used to treat it.