Plague: Antique and Medieval Emerging Infectious Disease

Abstract

Plague is a well-known disease caused by Yersinia pestis, with the potential to cause significant morbidity and mortality in humans and major public health impacts. Many animal species are sensible to the disease and some play important epidemiological role in sylvatic and domestic cycles. Since ancient pandemics, the disease never disappeared and nowadays continues to represent a threat to humans and animals. Recent reports of antibiotic resistance and potential use in bioterrorism recall adequate awareness by human medicine and veterinary professionals.