New Mexico reports first case of human plague in 2026

SANTA FE – A Santa Fe County woman has died from plague—the first human case in New Mexico in 2026, the New Mexico Department of Health reports.

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has reached out to close contacts of the woman and will conduct an environmental assessment to determine ongoing risk and confirm no other close contacts have symptoms consistent with plague.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of the woman who passed away due to plague,” said Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for NMDOH. “This tragedy emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and for taking measures to prevent plague infections.”

Plague is a bacterial disease carried by rodents and found throughout much of the western United States. It is generally transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas from wild rodents or household pets. It can also be transmitted by direct contact with infected animals. People with plague in their lungs can transmit the disease through coughing.

Symptoms of plague in humans include sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, and weakness. There may be a painful swelling of the lymph node in the groin, armpit or neck areas. Physicians who suspect plague should promptly report to NMDOH.

With prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment, the fatality rate in people and pets can be greatly reduced. To prevent plague, NMDOH recommends:

• Avoid sick or dead rodents and rabbits and their nests and burrows. 
• Clean up areas near your home where rodents live, such as woodpiles, brush piles, junk and abandoned vehicles. Put hay, wood and compost piles as far as possible from your home. 
• Use insect repellent while hiking, camping, or working outdoors. Products containing DEET are recommended and can be applied to both skin and clothing, and products containing permethrin can be applied to clothing. 
• Talk to your veterinarian about using an appropriate flea control product on your pets because not all products are safe for cats, dogs and children. 
• Have sick pets examined promptly by a veterinarian. 
• See your doctor about any unexplained illness you may have related to sudden and severe fever.

New Mexico recorded three human plague cases in 2025, and one in 2024, which was fatal.

Three dogs have been diagnosed with plague in 2026. In 2025, one cat and four dogs were confirmed to have plague.

For more information, including fact sheets in English and Spanish, visit the Plague page on our NMDOH website.

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