Plague Mortality

Did all plague victims die?



There were two forms of the Black Death - bubonic plague and pneumonic plague.

Those with bubonic plague exhibited the tell-tale mark of the bubo, or tumor, under the armpits or in the groin area; a tumor which could be as large as an apple and indicated an inflammation of the lymphatic glands. Some victims recovered after extended suffering. Many were restored to health if the tumors could be lanced. Lancing proved a difficult procedure as the skin covering the bubo was thick and tough.

The pneumonic plague was more virulent, as sufferers also contracted pneumonia, surviving no more than two days.

Some people displayed small black pustules scattered all over their bodies. These poor wretches all died. There are no recorded recoveries.