A case of Bubonic Plague in Michigan marks a significant increase in the number of annual cases of this disease that dates back to the Middle Ages. And, a recent death near Sedalia, MO, from West Nile Virus raises additional health questions. 

          Both diseases could easily happen closer to home, according to Dana Hawkinson, MD, Infectious Diseases at The University of Kansas Hospital.  Bubonic Plague, which is spread by fleas, exists in western Kansas according to Dr. Hawkinson and West Nile Virus, spread by mosquitos, has been around since 1999.  Dr. Hawkinson explains how both diseases are spread, treated and prevented.