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.

To pester or annoy persistently or incessantly. synonym: harass.

To cause suffering or hardship for.