How can the spread of plague be prevented?
Travelers to areas where plague is common should avoid contact with rodents, fleas and rodent-infested places. Sick or dead stray animals should also be avoided. Decontamination Q: If people around me have the plague, how can I keep from getting it? Avoid contact with patients and seek medical assistance. Patients should be isolated and started on an antibiotic regime. Those who have close contact with patients should also be treated with antibiotics and observed for any signs of illness. Plague bacteria are very susceptible to the action of sunlight and heating, but can remain viable for weeks in water or at near freezing temperatures. A plague aerosol is only effective for approximately one hour following release. Bioterrorist Threat Q: Is it a probability or even a possibility that the plague could be used as a biological weapon? A: Technically, it is possible to use plague as a weapon. The technique for dispersal has been developed and large quantities of the agent, suitable for we
