A child dies of the plague in an American state

A 10-year-old boy "died of plague-related causes," Colorado officials said.

In a statement, the Colorado Department of Health and Environment said the death of the child, who lived in La Plata County, was linked to confirmed plague in animals and fleas in 6 counties in the state.

"While it's rare for people to catch the plague, we want to make sure everyone knows the symptoms," the website "The Hill" quoted epidemiologist and veterinarian Jennifer House as saying.

House noted that the plague could be treated with antibiotics if caught early, and stressed that people should look for signs of a high temperature or swollen lymph nodes.

The plague, known as the "bubonic plague" or the "black death", can be transmitted to humans by flea bites or by direct contact with infected animals.