Our ancient enemy: scientists discover oldest-known plague outbreak
Scientists have uncovered the oldest known evidence of plague outbreaks, dating back approximately 5,500 years in Siberia. This discovery predates the Black Death by about 200 years. Researchers analyzed ancient DNA from hunter-gatherer remains near Lake Baikal and found plague bacteria, suggesting the disease impacted early human populations. The plague likely spread from marmots to humans through consumption of infected organs or hides, and also transmitted between people via respiratory droplets. AI
