Plague is a serious bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis, spread mainly through flea bites from infected rats, or through contact with infected animals or their fluids. Symptoms include sudden fever, chills, weakness, and swollen, painful lymph nodes. Without quick treatment, it can be fatal.

Kolkata’s risk comes from dense population, overcrowded settlements, poor waste management, and large rat colonies in markets and slums. Stray animals, inadequate drainage, and open garbage dumps help fleas spread the disease. Flooding and waterlogging worsen the problem.

To reduce your risk:

Keep your home rat-proof. Seal cracks in walls and floors. Store food in closed containers. Dispose of garbage in covered bins. Avoid dumping waste in open drains or streets.
Control fleas and rats. Use safe, approved rodent control measures. If you see many dead rats or unusual rat deaths, report it to the local health authority. Avoid touching dead rodents. Use flea control products for pets and around your house.
Protect your skin and breathing. Wear gloves and closed shoes when cleaning areas with heavy rat activity or dead animals. If you work around animals or in waste handling, use masks and gloves to reduce aerosol exposure.
Seek care immediately if you develop sudden fever and swollen glands, especially after contact with dead animals or flea bites. Early antibiotic treatment is essential. Do not wait for the illness to “go away.”
Report unusual animal deaths or sudden clusters of fever cases to local health services. Community clean-ups and coordinated rat control are essential to break the cycle of infection.

Plague risk in Kolkata

Prevention Guide