Pneumonic plague

Definition

Pneumonic plague is a severe and highly contagious form of the bubonic plague caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. It primarily affects the lungs, causing symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and fever.

Related terms

Bubonic plague: A less severe form of the plague caused by the same bacterium. It is characterized by swollen lymph nodes (buboes) and can be transmitted through fleas or direct contact with infected animals.

Yersinia pestis: The bacterium responsible for causing both bubonic and pneumonic plagues. It is primarily found in rodents and transmitted to humans through fleas or direct contact.

Contagious disease: A disease that can be easily spread from one person to another through various means such as respiratory droplets, physical contact, or contaminated surfaces.