Tularemia, a rare infectious disease also known as ‘rabbit fever’, has seen a significant increase in cases in the US over recent years. According to reports, the annual average incidence of tularemia infections rose by 56% between 2011 and 2022 compared to the years 2001-2010.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) attributes this rise to various factors, including bites from infected ticks and deer flies, as well as direct skin contact with infected animals such as rabbits, hares, and rodents. The CDC warns that humans can contract tularemia through these means, putting them at risk of infection.
The disease is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis and has a generally low case fatality rate of less than 2%. However, symptoms can vary in severity, with high fever being a common feature. The CDC reports that other symptoms may include skin ulcers, mouth ulcers, respiratory issues such as coughing and chest pain, and eye irritation.
To reduce the risk of tularemia infection, health officials recommend taking precautions such as using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, removing attached ticks promptly, avoiding untreated surface water, and wearing masks during activities that may release bacteria into the air. Handling animals like rabbits or rodents also requires special precautions, including wearing gloves and thoroughly cooking game meat before consumption.
Currently, there is no vaccine available for the general public to prevent tularemia infection.
Source: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/rabbit-fever-symptoms-fatality-rate-and-other-things-to-know-7412053