On Feb. 8, 2024, Deschutes County Health Services confirmed a case of human plague in a local resident. The individual was likely infected by their symptomatic pet cat. This case was identified and treated in the earlier stages of the disease, posing little risk to the community.

According to Oregon Health Authority, plague is rare in Oregon, with the last case reported in 2015. It spreads to humans or animals through a bite from an infected flea or by contact with an animal sick with the disease. The most common animals to carry plague in Central Oregon are squirrels and chipmunks, but mice and other rodents can also carry the disease.