Pneumonic plague is a serious infectious disease that is transmitted through cough droplets. However, there has not been a case of plague in the EU for decades, and the disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics readily available in the European Union. Transmission also generally requires close and prolonged contact with an infected person who is already showing symptoms.
Patients with suspected or confirmed pneumonic plague should be isolated and offered appropriate treatment as assessed by a specialised healthcare provider. Close contacts should be rapidly identified and monitored.
ECDC will continue to monitor the event, and is proactively in contact with WHO Europe to discuss the situation.