A resident of South Lake Tahoe in California, US, has tested positive for plague, a disease that has caused widespread pandemic and high mortality, local authorities said.

The El Dorado County said in a statement that the individual is currently under the care of a medical professional and is recovering at home.

"It’s believed that the person may have been bitten by an infected flea while camping in South Lake Tahoe area," the statement said.

The South Lake Tahoe is a popular tourist destination in the US.

Health officials are investigating the situation.

“Plague is naturally present in many parts of California, including higher elevation areas of El Dorado County, said Kyle Fliflet, El Dorado County’s Acting Director of Public Health. “It’s important that individuals take precautions for themselves and their pets when outdoors, especially while walking, hiking and or camping in areas where wild rodents are present,” he added.

Plague was also known as the "Black Death" during the fourteenth century, causing more than 50 million deaths in Europe.

What causes plague?

Plague is caused by the bacterium, Yersinia pestis.

Plague bacteria are most often transmitted by the bites of fleas that have acquired the bacteria from infected squirrels, chipmunks and other wild rodents.

Dogs and cats may also bring plague-infected fleas into the home. People can get plague when they are bitten by infected fleas.

Plague can be prevented by avoiding contact with wild rodents, and by keeping pets away from rodent burrows.

Symptoms of plague usually show up within two weeks of exposure to an infected animal or flea and include fever, nausea, weakness and swollen lymph nodes. Plague can be effectively treated with antibiotics if detected early.