Pestilence

Fleas test positive for plague in two Arizona counties - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Health officials are reporting that fleas in Navajo and Coconino counties in Arizona have tested positive for the plague, and are urging residents to take precaution. The plague is known for killing millions of people in Europe during the Middle Ages, but outbreaks of the plague occasionally happen in the southwestern United States during cooler summers following wet winters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Experts now say fleas in the counties have tested positive for the disease and are advising residents to take extra care of their pets and be careful around animals because the disease can easily be transmitted to humans."

Comment: That certainly adds extra urgency to getting the right flea collar for your pets. I was thinking this might be a case of old diseases coming back but a little research shows that it never really went away and for the most part is treatable.  Caution is in order if you live in this part of the country, but no need to panic.