Imported Plague—New York City, 2002

Abstract

N NOVEMBER 1, 2002, a married couple traveled f r o m S a n t a F e C o u n t y , N e w Mexico, to New York City (NYC), where they both became ill with fever and unilateral inguinal adenopathy; bubonic plague (Yersinia pestis) was diagnosed subsequently. This report summarizes the clinical and public health investigation of these cases and underscores the importance of rapid diagnosis and communication among healthcare providers, public health agencies, and the public when patients seek medical attention for an illness that might be caused by an agent of terrorism. CASE REPORTS Case 1