Plague confirmed in ground squirrel
Parts of a national forest in Los Angeles have been closed after routine checks found a ground squirrel to be infected with plague.
The animal was trapped in the Angeles National Park on July 16 during routine surveillance, and tested positive for the disease on July 23.
Three sites at the park were then closed by officials from the LA County Department of Public Health and the US Forestry Service at 1pm on July 24.
Director of public health, Jonathan Fielding, said: "Plague is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas, which is why we close affected campgrounds and recreational areas as a precaution while preventive measures are taken to control the flea population."
Plague causes bubonic plague, with symptoms including enlarged lymph glands (buboes) near the bite, fever and chills. Whilst the disease can be fatal if left untreated, most patients respond well to antibiotics.
Campers at the Broken Blade, Twisted Arrow and Pima Loops of Table Mountain Campgrounds at the park have been notified, and the sites are expected to remain closed for at least seven days.
Campers visiting recreational areas near the three areas have been warned not to feed wild animals or leave food out where they can reach it.
Officials have also advised against camping or picnicking near ground squirrel burrows, and taking pets into the areas where they will be exposed to fleas.
Squirrel burrows in the area will be dusted for fleas and further tests will be carried out on the animals before the park is reopened.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
