Prevention of Bubonic Plague

Rat control and watching for the disease in the wild rodent population are the main measures used to control the risk of epidemics. A vaccination is available for high-risk workers, but its effectiveness is not clearly established.

There is no vaccine for the plague but there are measures that can help your body resist the plague if you've been exposed. These measures are only needed if you've been exposed to someone with the plague, have been bitten by a flea in an area known to have had recent plague outbreaks or plan to travel to an area known to have had recent plague outbreaks.

If you live in an area where plague outbreaks occur you may help prevent the plague by not coming into contact with sick or dead animals, rodent proofing your home, attempt to keep your pets flea free and take precautions such as insect repellent and watching children and pets closely while outdoors.