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Arizona health officials reported the first plague death since 2007, a case of pneumonic plague in Coconino County. While plague is rare, averaging seven US cases annually, pneumonic plague is the most easily spread and deadly form. The victim's identity is withheld out of respect for the family. Plague is bacterial, treatable with antibiotics, and spreads through infected fleas or bodily fluids. Health officials urge caution when handling dead or sick animals.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.