Rare tularemia cases, also known as “rabbit fever,” have seen a significant increase in the US over the past decade. According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases rose by more than 50% between 2011 and 2022. This period saw an average of 205 reported cases annually.
The majority of cases were reported in children aged five- nine years, older men, and American Indian or Alaska Native populations. Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma accounted for around half of the cases from all 47 states.
Health officials attribute the increase to improved case detection due to changes in laboratory testing. However, they note that this may also reflect an actual rise in human infections. The CDC emphasizes that vaccination is not widely available in the US, but treatment with antibiotics can be effective if symptoms are recognized promptly.
The bacteria responsible for tularemia has been designated a Tier 1 Select Agent due to its potential use as a bioweapon. Case fatality rates are generally low, typically below 2%, although they can range from less than 24% in some cases.
To combat the rising number of cases, the CDC is calling for tailored prevention education and healthcare provider training, particularly among those serving tribal populations.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/rabbit-fever-symptoms-disease-b2672227.html