Ancient DNA reveals plague was already killing humans 5,500 years ago

Plague was already a deadly disease 5,500 years ago, long before the emergence of cities, farming, or the rat-infested conditions typically associated with historical outbreaks. Researchers analyzed ancient DNA from hunter-gatherer cemeteries in Siberia. During their study, they discovered early plague strains in nearly 40% of the individuals examined. They also found evidence of rapid, family-based outbreaks. These epidemics wiped out many children and young teenagers. This research indicates that plague was dangerous to humans even in the distant past.