Context:
China’s northern region of Inner Mongolia reported 2 cases of bubonic plague.
About Bubonic Plague:
- A bacterial disease also known as “Black Death”.
- A zoonotic disease that affects both humans and animals.
- Forms of Plagues – Pneumonic plague, Bubonic plague(most common), Septicemic plague.
- Transmission – Through bite of infected fleas,direct contact with infected tissues etc.
- Major symptom – Large and swollen lumps in the lymph nodes (buboes) – thus got its name
- Treatment – Approved antimicrobials such as streptomycin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, and doxycycline.
- 3 most endemic countries – Democratic Republic of the Congo, Madagascar and Peru.
Bubonic plague severely impacted India (Bombay) in 1896 where over 12 million Indians were affected. This led to the enactment of Epidemic Disease Act of 1897 which has the “power to take special measures and prescribe regulations as to dangerous epidemic disease”.
About Lymph:
- Lymph is a colourless fluid responsible for the immune responses of the body.
- An important carrier for nutrients, hormones, etc.
- Lymph nodes (lymph glands) – Small, bean-shaped structures located throughout the body as part of the lymphatic system.
- Lymphatic system –
- A complex network of vessels, nodes, and organs
- Major role – Maintaining fluid balance, filtering out harmful substances, and supporting the immune system’s functions.
Source: Hindustan Times
Previous Year Question
Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2022 Prelims]
(a) They protect the body from environmental allergens.
(b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
(c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
(d) They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens.
