
Plague vaccine
A plague vaccine is a medical treatment designed to protect against the bubonic plague, caused by the bacteria *Yersinia pestis*. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight the bacteria if exposed, reducing the risk of severe illness. Historically used in high-risk areas and for certain laboratory workers, the vaccine is not commonly used today because plague is rare and antibiotics are effective if caught early. It may be given as a preventive measure to people at ongoing risk, offering a level of immunity that can help prevent the disease or lessen its severity.