In terms of geography, where is plague most commonly reported?

Plague is most commonly reported in rural areas globally due to the natural habitat of its primary vectors and reservoirs, which are typically found in these regions. The bacterium responsible for plague, Yersinia pestis, is often carried by rodents and transmitted through fleas, which thrive in rural environments.

In rural settings, there is often a closer interaction between wildlife and human populations, increasing the chances for outbreaks. Although plague can occur in urban areas, particularly if it spreads from rodent populations, the historical and epidemiological data indicate that the highest incidence is found in rural areas.

The notion that the disease is exclusive to Asia, only found in urban areas, or restricted to the tropics is incorrect as plague has been documented in various parts of the world, including Africa, the Americas, and Europe, predominantly in non-urban settings. Thus, recognizing that plague affects rural environments across the globe helps in understanding its transmission dynamics and ensuring appropriate public health responses.