— Researchers found that this type of ancient plague evolved long before bubonic plague

June 20, 2026

• 2 min read

Scientists have found the oldest known evidence of the plague, which sparked deadly outbreaks dating back about 5,500 years ago -- some 200 years earlier than previously thought.

The disease has sickened humans for thousands of years and wiped out a significant chunk of Europe's population in the 14th century during what's known as the Black Death. Though rare, the plague is still around today and is treated with antibiotics.