idfg-badge

Idaho Fish and Game

adult male Oropsylla Montana flea

Plague Information

Area south of Boise had a plague outbreak in 2016 and 2015.

Plague awareness season in Idaho runs March through July.

This page provides information about the occurrence of plague in wildlife populations in Idaho.

For public health questions and information, contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For other wildlife related diseases,visit our wildlife diseases page.

What do I do?

If you find multiple dead rodents, you should:
  1. IMPORTANT: Possible exposure or illnesses to pets or humans should be reported to the Department of Health and Welfare.
  2. Vacate the area! Avoid exposure to fleas and do not handle dead wild animals. Photos are valuable, but do not risk your health to obtain them.
  3. All reports will be reviewed. Not all reports will be responded to. If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
    Report Dead Rodents

"Since 1940, only six human cases of plague have been reported in Idaho."

The most recent was in June, 2018 and uncertain of origin.

Information Resources