The first plague emerged in Siberia 5,500 years ago and primarily killed children

Scientists have discovered that the plague emerged in Siberia around 5,500 years ago, much earlier than previously thought, and primarily affected children in hunter-gatherer communities. This revelation, based on DNA analysis from multiple ancient cemeteries, sheds light on the plague's origins and its devastating impact on early human populations. Understanding this historical context is crucial as it provides insights into how diseases have shaped human history and may inform modern public health strategies.