Ancient DNA Uncovers Prehistoric Plague in Siberia
Recent archaeological findings in southeastern Siberia have provided compelling evidence of the earliest known plague outbreak. Scientists analyzing ancient DNA from late Stone Age burial sites discovered that the bacterium responsible, Yersinia pestis, devastated hunter-gatherer populations around 5,500 years ago.
Tracing the Origins of a Deadly Disease
The research indicates that the plague swept through these sparsely populated communities in destructive waves. This timeline places the outbreak at least two centuries after the initial emergence of the Yersinia pestis bacterium itself. The discovery sheds new light on the historical spread and impact of this formidable disease, predating previously understood timelines for its widespread human impact.
The findings suggest that raw marmots may have been a source of the bacterium, leading to the devastating impact on these ancient tribes.
The investigation involved the examination of dozens of burial sites, including the remains of both adults and children, offering a glimpse into the tragic toll the plague took on these prehistoric societies. This breakthrough in ancient DNA analysis pushes back the known history of plague outbreaks significantly, highlighting its long-standing presence in human history.
Source: Original Article