Perhaps no other disease conjures up such images of death and has had such an effect on civilizations throughout the years than the plague. Bubonic plague may be the most well-known type; other types include pneumonic and septicemic plagues. All types are caused by a bacterium called Yersinia pestis, and is typically transmitted through bites from infected fleas. Symptoms include fever, cough, headache, and buboes (tender, enlarged lymph nodes). Treatment for plague typically involves antibiotics.

 

Welcome to the Plague Health Channel on eMedTV. This segment of the eMedTV Web site contains a wealth of information on all aspects of the plague. Detailed articles explain each type of plague (including symptoms, incubation periods, treatment options, and more). Articles are also provided on the history of the plague, a look at the bacteria responsible, and whether plague is still a problem today.

 

You can begin your eMedTV plague experience by clicking one of the featured links located on this page. Or, you can start with the health topic section on the left side to find a topic of interest. If you do not find the exact information that you are looking for in these two locations, use the search box at the top of this page.