El Paso County, Colorado health officials report a dog tested positive for plague following a probable exposure near the Divide Trail Loop at Hayden Divide Park in Teller County. This has prompted authorities to urge residents to take precautions to prevent exposure to the plague. While plague is common in the summer months, taking simple precautions can lower the risk of transmission to pets and humans. Plague is caused by bacteria (Yersinia pestis) that can be spread to people and pets by the bites of infected fleas or by direct contact with infected animals. People or pets with direct exposure to fleas or wildlife in the affected areas may be at risk. People who think they have been exposed should contact a health care provider immediately. Symptoms may include sudden fever, headache, chills, weakness, and tender, painful lymph nodes. If caught early, plague is treatable with antibiotics in both people and pets. Plague is frequently detected in prairie dogs, squirrels, rabbits, ch