plague

A highly infectious, usually fatal, epidemic disease; a pestilence.

A virulent, infectious disease that is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis (syn. Pasteurella pestis) and is transmitted primarily by the bite of fleas from an infected rodent, especially a rat. In humans it occurs in bubonic form, marked by lymph node enlargement, and in pneumonic form, marked by infection of the lungs, and can progress to septicemia.

A widespread affliction or calamity seen as divine retribution.

An influx or large number of destructive or unwanted things, especially animals.

Something that causes persistent hardship, trouble, or annoyance.