Runeword
Plague
ChamShaelUm
- Sockets
- 3
- Required level
- 67
- Item types
- Swords, Daggers, Claws
- Ladder
- Ladder only
Properties
- 20% Chance to cast level 12 Lower Resist when struck
- 25% Chance to cast level 15 Poison Nova on striking
- Level 13-17 Cleansing Aura When Equipped (varies)
- +1-2 All Skills
- +20% Increased Attack Speed
- +220-320% Enhanced Damage (varies)
- -23% To Enemy Poison Resistance
- 0.3% (0-29.7) Deadly Strike (Based on Character Level)
- +25% Chance of Open Wounds
- Freezes Target +3
Who uses Plague
Plague is a ladder-only runeword for swords, daggers, and claws, favored by poison-based melee builds. It casts Lower Resist when struck, reducing enemy resistances, and Poison Nova on striking for additional damage. The Cleansing aura removes curses and poisons, while the -enemy poison resistance amplifies poison damage. It works well for Rabies druids and martial arts assassins, but cannot be made in javelins, so poison javazons cannot use it. Necromancers may have better options, but it can serve as a support weapon for hirelings. Available at level 67 with three sockets, it is a niche but powerful choice.
FAQ
- What runes make Plague?
- Cham, Shael, Um in that order, in a 3-socket item.
- What items can Plague be made in?
- Swords, Daggers, Claws.
- Is Plague ladder only?
- Yes, ladder only.
Introduced in patch 2.4. Names and numbers compiled from the Diablo Wiki (CC BY-SA 3.0); sources: fandom-runewords. Last verified patch 3.3, 2026-09-12.